By Glenn Brown
As your local energy partner, and in honor of National Electrical Safety Month in May, Roanoke Electric Co-op is encouraging member-owners to take time this month to talk 
to your family about safe electricity practices. You can start by taking note of these practical recommendations:
Inside:
- Never put anything other than an electrical plug in an outlet. Use outlet covers to protect children.
- Examine electrical cords often for fraying or cracking and throw away any worn cords.
- Extension cords are for temporary use. They are not intended for use as permanent home wiring.
- Don’t run cords under carpets or rugs.
- Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter outlets should be used in any area where water and electricity could mix, including kitchens, bathrooms, garages and outdoors, and should be tested monthly.
- Never touch electrical appliances with wet hands or use them near sinks, tubs, toilets or showers.
- Don’t use extension cords or multi-outlet converters for appliances. All major appliances should be plugged directly into a wall outlet.
Outside:
- Never go near or drive over a power line. If you encounter a downed line, stay far away and notify the co-op by calling 252-209-2236.
- Keep kites, model airplanes and metallic balloons away from power lines.
- Watch for overhead lines when using a ladder, working on a roof or carrying a long tool.
- Call 811 before any digging project.
- If it is necessary to use a portable generator, always operate the generator in an open area outdoors. Use an extension cord to connect the generator directly to the appliance and ensure the extension cord has three-prongs and is rated in compliance with the appliance. Do not connect generators directly to household wiring unless the work is completed by a licensed electrician. This prevents back feeding, which could electrocute utility workers.
- Glenn Brown is Roanoke Electric Co-op’s safety coordinator. For more safety tips and information, visit roanokeelectric.com and the Electrical Safety Foundation International at ESFI.org.