Water and Electricity

Water and Electricity DO NOT Mix!

Did you know that water is an excellent conductor of electricity? Since the human body is composed of primarily water, you too are an excellent conductor of electricity. It is important to be careful around water. Whether it is a lake, an ocean, a bathtub or a sink, it is important to take extra care when using electricity.

Outdoor water safety

Boating, fishing and swimming are all popular during the hot summer months. While partaking in water activities, follow these guidelines to ensure your safety this summer:

  • Play safely and work safely around docks and piers. Do not have power tools or appliances near or around the docks.
  • Do not run any wiring across waterways that boats may run into.
  • Watch for electric lines near docks. Don’t swing booms or poles near them.
  • Don’t get your fishing line caught in power lines around docks and marinas.
  • Never touch electric wires or switches when you are wet.
  • Be careful not to use power tools near water or while standing on wet ground

Indoor water safety:

Water inside the home is just as dangerous as water outside the home. Here is a checklist on how to be safe around water in your sinks, showers and bathtubs inside your homes:

  • Don’t touch appliances such as radios, TV’s, hairdryers and curling irons with wet hands and keep them away from showers, sinks and bathtubs.
  • Make sure outlets are protected by Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI). This device is used to protect you from electrical shock.
  • Check small electrical appliances such as hair dryers, curling irons and razors. Keep the number of electrical appliances in your bathroom to a minimum.