Plug into electrical safety

Each year, electrical-related incidents result in more than 41,000 residential fires, claim about 370 lives and cause more than 1,400 injuries. These incidents also cause more than $680 million in property damage annually.

"Many electrical-related incidents are preventable," said U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Chairperson Ann Brown. "The simple act of removing electrical cords from under rugs could help prevent many house fires. If every household installed ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs), deaths from electrocution in and around the home could be reduced by one-half. I urge consumers to look around their homes and correct electrical hazards."

• Make sure cords are in good condition. A frayed or cracked cord could cause a shock or fire. Replace old and damaged extension cords with new ones that have the certification label of an independent testing laboratory on the cord.

• Check to see that extension cords are not overloaded, as indicated by the ratings labels on the cord and the appliance. Overloaded extension cords can cause fires. Change the cord to a higher-rated one or unplug some appliances. Remember: extension cords are not intended as permanent household wiring and should only be used on a temporary basis. Replace extension cords with power strips containing circuit breakers if you need a long-term solution.

• To reduce the risks of electric shock, make sure that Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFI) protection is provided for outlets at kitchen counters, in bathrooms, and at outdoor receptacles. Test GFIs monthly to make sure they are working properly.

• Prevent overheating that could lead to a fire by replacing light bulbs that have a higher wattage than recommended.

• Check to see that fuses are the correct size for the circuit. Replacing a correct size fuse with a larger size fuse can present a serious fire hazard.

• If an appliance repeatedly blows a fuse, trips a circuit breaker, or has given you a shock, unplug it and have it repaired or replaced.

• If outlets and switches are unusually warm or hot to the touch, an unsafe wiring condition could exist. Do not use the outlet or switch and have a qualified electrician check the wiring as soon as possible.

Be careful around power lines

Many activities can bring people in close contact with power lines. Always look up before:

• flying a kite
• setting up a ladder
• climbing a tree
• getting on the roof
• moving heavy farm equipment
• installing a satellite television dish
• painting

Parents should also remind children not to play on or near electrical equipment such as padmount transformers (those green electrical boxes in the yard).

And always remember to call Gopher State One Call at 651-454-0002 (or 1-800-252-1166 outside the metro area) at least 48 hours before you plan to dig in the yard for planting or construction. Gopher State One Call will arrange to mark all underground utilities at no cost to you.

Remember: an electrical contact accident can cause serious injury or death.