Power for Progress …A weekly column from the Grand River Dam Authority  Recognizing National Electric Safety Month …“Extending” more safety tips

Each year, the Electric Safety Foundation International (esfi.org) recognizes May as National Electric Safety Month. The Grand River Dam Authority is proud to join in this effort by sharing the electrical safety message as well. This week, the message is focused on extension cords. In many homes, these items are used on a daily basis and perhaps even more often this time of year, when warmer weather gives us the opportunity to complete some do-it-yourself projects around the house.

Before you plug in that extension cord, consider these tips:

• Do not overload extension cords or allow them to run through water or snow on the ground.

• Do not substitute extension cords for permanent wiring.

• Do not run cords through walls, doorways, ceilings, or floors. If the cord is covered, heat cannot escape, which may result in a fire hazard.

• A heavy reliance on extension cords is an indication that you have too few outlets to address your needs. Have additional outlets installed where you need them.

• Make sure the extension cord or temporary power strip you use is rated for the products to be plugged in and is marked for either indoor or outdoor use.

• The appliance or tool that you are using the cord with will have a wattage rating on it. Match this up with your extension cord and do not use a cord that has a lower rating.

• Never use a cord that feels hot or is damaged in any way. Touching even a single exposed strand can give you an electric shock or burn.

• Use extension cords with polarized and/or three-prong plugs.

• Buy only cords approved by an independent testing laboratory, such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL).

Remember, using extension cords properly is critical to your safety. We do hope you will keep these tips in mind, and for more electric safety tips, keep an eye on this column space; we will be sharing more throughout May, National Electric Safety Month. Also, be sure to visit esfi.org for additional electric safety information.

GRDA is Oklahoma’s largest public power 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.

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