Electricity Do's and Don'ts

Electric shock can cause severe muscle contractions, broken bones, irregular heart rhythm, trouble breathing, entrance and exit burns, and of course death(i.e. electrocution).

• Keep all electric devices far away from water: water is very conductive, so the electricity will travel through the water.
• Fuses do not protect you from an electrical shock. The time it takes for a fuse to break is not fast enough to avoid shock. Use a Residual Current Device instead.
• Don't use extension cords on a permanent basis. They are only designed for short term/temporary use.
• Don't run cords under carpets. They can be come frayed and you wouldn't know about it.
• If you have pets, don't hide electrical cords. Pets like to gnaw on things and you won't be aware of any damage if your cords are hidden behind furniture.
• Don't touch someone that is being electrocuted, you will also get electrocuted, turn off the power at the source first.
• Don't try to use an object to move a live wire. The electricity can arc from the wire to you. Turn off the power at the source first.
• Know ahead of time where your home's fuses and circuit breakers are, and how to turn them off.
• Use plastic plug covers to cover wall plugs so children can not place objects inside them.
• If an accident occurs, and there is an electric wire hanging overhead stay in your car. If you try to get out, touching the ground, especially if wet, can get you electrocuted. Don't touch any parts in your car, including the ignition key, radio buttons, door handle, etc. Wait in your car for help.
• Never use a fork or a knife to remove stuck toast in the toaster. It is electricity that causes the elements to heat up. Unplug the toaster first.
• Never touch a stove element while the stove is on. Again, it is electricity that causes the elements to heat up.
• If you do get electrocuted, even if you think you are fine, you should seek medical help, as the heart muscle can be affected without any serious warning signs until a few hours later.