Outdoor safety

To enjoy the benefits of electricity safely, it’s important to be aware of and follow key safety tips.

• Never touch or attempt to move a downed power line.
• Flying kites and model planes is best done in open areas such as fields or beaches.

Electricity and water

Water and electricity are a dangerous combination, thus caution is advised when using electrical appliances near water.

• Avoid using power tools in wet conditions, such as on wet ground or while standing in water.
• Outdoor electrical outlets require weatherproofing and GFCI protection to prevent electrical shock.
• Never handle electrical appliances when in contact with water, such as in a pool, hot tub, bathtub, or shower.

Transformers

• Transformers are typically green, located on concrete slabs, and indicate the presence of underground power lines.
• The provided text warns against opening transformer doors and instructs that if an unlocked door is found, Duke Energy should be contacted immediately.

Indoor safety

Electricity is fundamental to our daily comfort, convenience, and security, yet its inherent dangers are often overlooked. Being aware of these risks and knowing how to identify potential issues can help prevent accidents.

Electrical plugs and cords

• Replace any cords that are damaged or frayed.
• Never insert anything other than an electrical plug into an outlet.
• Never place cords under carpet or rugs.
• Never pull a cord – instead, pull the plug.
• Never overload outlets. Using multiple plug-in adapters or power strips could cause a fire.

Electrical and water

• If an appliance falls into water, do not attempt to retrieve it or unplug it directly. First, turn off the power at the circuit breaker, then safely remove the appliance from the water.
• If appliances are used near a sink, they should be turned off after each use.
• You should not use a hair dryer if your hands are wet, if you are standing on a wet floor, or if you are in a bathtub or shower with water.

Flooding guidelines

The  safety as the top priority following storms, particularly concerning electrical hazards. It cites the American Red Cross, stating that electrocutions are the second-leading cause of death during and after floods. Energy Bill Desk then offers electrical safety guidelines relevant to flood situations.

• If your home is threatened by rising water or you have to evacuate due to flooding, you should turn off your power at the circuit breaker panel or fuse box.
• When electrical lines are down, it is crucial to stay away from them because water conducts electricity easily, posing a significant safety risk.
• Do not drive or stand near downed electrical lines.
• Never handle a fuse or circuit breaker if your hands are wet or if you are standing on a wet or damp surface.
• If a property experiences flooding, Energy Bill Desk requires an inspection by a licensed electrician before power can be reconnected. Should damage be found, the electrician must perform repairs and secure verification from the local building inspection authority for power restoration.

Standby generator safety

A generator is helpful during a power cut. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safe operation to protect yourself, your family, or your business.

• A licensed electrician should install stationary or standby emergency generators.
• To use an emergency or portable generator, plug appliances directly into it.
• Connecting a generator directly to a breaker panel, fuse box, or meter box is dangerous as it can energize power lines, endangering utility and tree-trimming crews working to restore power.
• Store gasoline in approved, child-proof containers.
• Obey all local, state and national electrical and fire codes.
• Keep children away from generators.
• Generators used at home during power outages can pose a serious safety risk to utility crews. It is crucial to turn off generators when crews are in the vicinity, as the electricity produced by a generator can backfeed into power lines. This backfeed can severely injure technicians who might be working on what they believe to be de-energized lines, due to the unexpected electrical load.