Safety tips for springtime, stormy weather

Sunshine, rain, high winds, tornados, hail, thunder and lightning.

It may look like a list of different types of weather conditions but in Oklahoma, we all know it could simply be the events of one single day. With the arrival of spring, so comes the arrival of spring weather to our state, meaning that storms will most likely be included in the mix.

The Grand River Dam Authority has over 1,200 miles of powerlines in the state and generates electricity that touches 75 of 77 Oklahoma counties. Because of that, there are members of the GRDA team that always keep a close eye on the weather; especially during the stormy season. There are also employees always prepared to respond to areas where high winds, tornados or lightning may have caused damage to our system.

 Homeowners should also take extra precautions. There are tips you should keep in mind on a warm spring day when you are working and playing outside, or on a stormy spring day, when weather conditions keep you indoors. In either case, GRDA takes this opportunity to pass along a few seasonal electric tips from the Electric Safety Foundation International (ESFI.org).

 •  Planning on working in the yard? Remember, Water does not mix with electricity. Avoid damp conditions, including wet grass, when working with electricity.

•  Unplug outdoor tools and appliances when they are not in use.

•  Remember that ladders — even those made of wood — that contact a power line can prove fatal.

•  Inspect power tools and appliances for frayed cords, broken plugs and cracked or broken housing. Repair or replace damaged items.

•    Wherever possible, use a portable ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) or purchase tools with built-in GFCI technology.

•    Do not turn on electric items or touch circuit breakers when you are wet, or unplug wet appliances until they have been checked by a licensed electrician. Even lamps and vacuum cleaners should not be used until they are completely dried out and no longer pose an electric shock risk.

 These are just a few of the tips you should keep in mind as you plan your springtime outdoor activities.

 Headquartered in Vinita, GRDA is Oklahoma’s state-owned electric utility; fully funded by revenues from electric and water sales instead of taxes. Each day, GRDA strives to be an “Oklahoma agency of excellence” by focusing on the 5 E’s: electricity, economic development, environmental stewardship, employees and efficiency.