Keep Electric Appliances Away From Water

In 2017, an accident involving a plugged in cell phone that fell into a bathtub became a tragic reminder that water and electricity are a dangerous combination. Assessing electrical hazards near areas of water is a wise investment of time and personal energy. Safe Electricity offers the following tips to stay safe:

• Do not put any electrical appliance within five feet of a bathtub, sink or swimming pool.
• Any electric outlets in wet areas of the home, such as bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms and basements, as well as outdoors, should be equipped with a GCFI, or Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter.
• Use battery operated, rather than electric, appliances near tubs, sinks and swimming pools.
• Don’t change the radio station, or touch any electric appliances until you are dry – never touch any electrical appliances when you are wet or standing in water.

For more information on electrical safety, visit www.SafeElectricity.org.