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Frequently Asked Questions About Outdoor Safety Basics
When tackling an outdoor task, keep in mind that electric-powered lawn mowers and tools should never be used in the rain, on wet grass, or in wet conditions. Inspect power tools and electric lawn mowers before each use for frayed cords, broken plugs and cracked or broken housings. If damaged, stop using the tool or mower immediately and have it repaired or replaced. Remember to unplug all portable power tools when not in use.
Yes. When powering up outdoors with an extension cord, make sure to use a cord that's marked for outdoor use and rated for your power tool's needs.
Before carrying or moving a ladder, "LOOK UP AND LIVE!" That is, check for overhead power lines. Electrical contact between these lines and a ladder can kill or cause serious injury. If you must work in the area of a power line, keep at least 10 feet between you and the power line.
All ladders should have a label certifying that they comply with specifications of the North American National Standards Institute and are listed with Underwriters Laboratories.
Use only a clean, dry, fiberglass or wooden ladder - never a metal ladder - when working near electrical wires or equipment. Never use any ladder in strong wind and never use the top platform or top step. When working from a ladder, be sure to use double-insulated or properly grounded electrical tools.
In addition, you should inspect and clean your ladders regularly and replace any ladder that is damaged or broken. Also, ladders should be stored in a well-ventilated area and in a manner that prevents them from sagging or warping. Moisture and sun exposure can shorten the life of a ladder.
If you're digging a hole for trees or shrubs or building a deck, don't find yourself in a deep hole. Dial 8-1-1 to 'Call Before You Dig'. CPS Energy will locate and mark your electric and gas lines within 48 hours. Learn more about this service go to Call Before You Dig.
Don't put yourself out on a limb when it's time to trim your trees. When tree trimming, remember to stay at least 10 feet away from power lines. CPS Energy will trim your trees for free if limbs are near or interfering with overhead power lines. Learn more about this service go to Tree Trimming Near Powerlines.
Kite flying can be a breeze if you do it safely. Fly kites in an open field, away from cars, power lines or towers. Do not try to retrieve a kite that is stuck in a power line or tree. Contact CPS Energy at (210) 353-2222 instead. Never fly a kite in the rain and be sure its string is dry. Use only wood, paper, cloth or string (it's hard for electricity to go through these materials) as kite material.
You can't be certain if a downed power line is live by simply looking at it since live wires don't always twist, snap or spark. If you see a downed power line, DON'T TOUCH THE LINE OR ANYTHING THAT'S TOUCHING IT! Warn others to stay away and contact CPS Energy immediately at (210) 353-HELP (353-4357).
Climbing transmission towers and utility poles can lead to disaster. Getting too close to a power line or falling from a tower or pole could result in a serious injury or death. Other CPS Energy equipment such as substations, padmount transformers and transformer platforms can be just as dangerous and should never be touched or shot, or have objects thrown at them.
Stealing electricity is against the law and it's dangerous! Customers should never tamper with their electric meter or lines. Metal objects or tools coming into contact with electric current can be deadly.
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