Power for Progress…A weekly column from the Grand River Dam Authority Electric safety for the changing seasons

Both the calendar and the temperatures seem to finally be coming to an agreement that the fall season has arrived. Because of that, many of us are in a transition period of sorts, as we may be storing away some of our summer tools or electric devices and shifting our focus towards other that are needed more often during cool weather. If that is the case with you, we hope you will keep the following fall-specific electric safety tips in mind (from esfi.org):

• Safely store warm weather tools like lawn mowers and trimmers. Check cold weather tools, such as leaf and snow blowers, along with their power cords, for unusual wear and tear. Repair or replace worn tools or parts right away.

• Have any battery chargers you won’t be using until spring? If so, be sure to unplug them and store them in a safe place.

• Use only weatherproof electrical devices for outside activities. Protect outdoor electrical devices from moisture. Make sure electrical equipment that has been wet is inspected and reconditioned by a certified repair dealer.

• Keep dry leaves well away from outdoor lighting, outlets, and power cords.

• Make sure your electric blankets are in good shape and have a tag showing they have been certified by an independent testing lab such as UL, CSA, or ETL. Check those power cords and make sure they are not frayed or cracked.

• Do not tuck your electric blanket under mattresses or children and do not put anything, such as comforters or bedspreads, on top of the blanket while it is in use.

• Never allow pets to sleep on an electric blanket.

Remember, both indoors and outdoors, these tips can help promote electrical safety during this time of year. From your friends at GRDA, stay safe and enjoy fall in Oklahoma!

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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