Solar panels generate electricity, so safety matters. Stay at least 10 feet away from equipment, and keep panels, ladders and tools at least 10 feet away from power lines. Key Solar Safety Essentials for Public Awareness Never Climb on Solar Panels: Walking or climbing on PV panels can cause invisible micro-cracks that ruin the equipment, but more importantly, it poses an immediate fall and high-voltage shock hazard. Understand the Disconnect…

August 11th is 811 day. Did you know that every six minutes an underground utility line is damaged because someone dug without first calling 811? Call 811 before you dig to make sure you know what’s below. Even if you think you could get lucky or that digging one small hole (or two) won’t matter, don’t take for granted what lines might lurk beneath the soil in your yard or…

Home fires started by malfunctioning electric appliances and fixtures or faulty wiring kill nearly 500 Americans each year and cause $1.3 billion in property damage. But many electrical fires can be prevented simply by following safe practices.  “The statistics are staggering and disturbing, “says Chris Perry, president, and CEO of Kentucky Electric Cooperatives. “But behind the statistics are our families, friends and neighbors. Hearing about anyone injured in an electrical fire is what’s most upsetting. Oftentimes, injuries or…

As the sun heats the air, energy is created with air movement, and lightning typically comes from towering storm clouds. Fortunately, accidents involving lightning are very avoidable. Safe Electricity has the following suggestions to stay safe from the dangers of lightning: Sourced from: Safeelectricity.org

Can I drive over downed power lines? No. Never. Downed power lines can still be energized — even if they’re not sparking or moving. Driving over one can cause serious injury or death. It may look harmless, but the answer is NO. Downed power lines can energize your vehicle, the ground and nearby objects, putting you at serious risk. If you encounter a downed power line: