Safety Tips

Indoor Safety Tips:

• To guard against electrical shocks, install ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) in bathroom outlets and other areas where water and electricity might meet.

• Never set a radio, telephone or any other electrical appliance on the edge of a tub or sink. If you want music in the bathroom, get a battery-operated radio meant for use near water.

• Don't use a plugged-in appliance, like a hair dryer, when standing on a damp floor or in a wet bathtub or shower.

• If a plugged-in appliance does fall into water, don't reach in to get it out. Unplug it first by pulling on the cord, not the plug. If the outlet has a GFCI, it will automatically disconnect the circuit in case of an accident like this.

• If your home has a fuse box or circuit breaker, learn how to replace a blown fuse and reset a tripped breaker. Always keep a supply of extra fuses handy. Never use a penny to override a blown fuse. It can cause serious electrical damage.

• Check your appliances and power tools for the UL (Underwriters' Laboratories) seal, signifying that they've been tested for safety. Be sure to repair or replace any tools that are damaged.

• Don't overload any outlet or circuit in your home.

• Make sure you unplug the toaster before you pry out the toast.

• Keep all electrical cords in good condition. Don't run them under rugs or furniture and never staple or nail them in place.

• Remind children not to put anything into an electrical outlet. Use plastic outlet caps if there are young ones at home.

• If your basement floods, don't enter unless you are sure the water isn't in contact with a source of electricity. Call a qualified electrician to disconnect the power before you enter a flooded basement.

Outdoor Safety Tips:

• ComEd's electrical equipment is not insulated and can cause extreme injury or death to anyone who touches it without proper protective clothing or tools. So remember:

• When working with long metal ladders or tools, stay far away from overhead power lines leading to your home.

• Keep in mind that power lines often run underground. Before you dig anywhere, call DIGGER (312-744-7000) if you live within the Chicago city limits, or call JULIE (1-800-892-0123) if you live outside Chicago in Illinois.

• If you see a fallen power line call ComEd at 1-800-Edison-1 (1-800-334-7661) immediately and warn others to stay away.

• Remind children that wires, electrical equipment, sub-stations, and transformers are extremely dangerous and off lim

Safety Tips - Courtesy of ComEd - Print this page.