Safety tips for spring projects

Doug Drake

Each spring mother nature performs many wonderful feats. The sky seems to be a more brilliant shade of blue, trees and flowers begin to bud and bloom, and the warmth of the sun inspires us to migrate outdoors to start that little improvement project that we avoided last summer when the weather wasn't quite as kind.

Today many outside projects can be made easier by the use of various electric power tools. Unfortunately, problems arise when we fail to recognize the hazards associated with the use and presence of electricity outside the home.

The first step in safely completing an outside project begins with planning and selecting the right tool for the job. Tools used outdoors should be designed for outdoor applications. They should have heavier wiring, be properly insulated and have a three-way ground plug. Extension cords should be carefully inspected before each use to locate broken or frayed wires or any compromise in the insulation. Extension cords should also be three-way ground type cords.

The power outlet you choose is also important to your safety. Outlets used for outdoor applications should contain a GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter). GFCIs are a type of mini circuit breaker that will protect you from the effects of electricity in case a fault should occur while you're working. Outlets not in use should be properly covered by an approved outdoor electrical outlet cover. While working it's important to unplug any tool not in use. And remember, never perform any maintenance or make any adjustments to a tool without first unplugging it.

Some outside projects may not require you to work directly with electricity, but electrical hazards may still be present. Most gardening involves some type of digging, and though the electric shovel has yet to be invented, electricity may still be a hazard. In addition to the rocks and roots you would expect to find with a shovel, the earth is abundant with other things you might not be expecting. Traditional underground hazards like water lines and natural gas lines may be joined by telephone and electric lines making any earthmoving project very dangerous. Something as simple as planting a new shrub can have dangerous and expensive consequences for the person doing the digging. Before taking that first shovel full of dirt out of the ground, call your electric cooperative to locate any underground electric cable. They have trained personnel and equipment who can locate and physically mark the location of the electric underground facilities quickly and easily. Remember, your co-op is very busy serving its members and will require some time to respond to your inquiry; place your call a few days in advance to give them advance notice.

Another outside project that may cause electric facilities to become a hazard is tree trimming. Never attempt to trim or fall a tree that is near an overhead powerline. Cooperative employees may make tree work look easy, but they posses a combination of training, experience and special tools that control the hazards associated with electrical lines near trees. Contact your cooperative if you are concerned about a tree on your property. Never attempt to trim or fall a tree near a power line yourself. Always call a professional.

The power of electricity simplifies our lives. Indoors, it gives us the freedom to control our environment. Outdoors it allows us to achieve great results very quickly. The key to working outdoors safely is common sense and caution. These are two very good qualities to apply to every aspect of life.

Doug Drake is a safety instructor for the Association of Illinois Electric Cooperatives, Springfield. For more infbrmation you can contact him at (217) 529-5561.

16 ILLINOIS COUNTRY LIVING APRIL 1999