Spring is a time of year when many adults and children are spending more time outdoors to enjoy nice weather.  Howell-Oregon Electric Cooperative and Safe Electricity encourages everyone to learn how to protect themselves from electrical hazards outdoors and to share this information with children.

Howell-Oregon Electric Cooperative recommends teaching children to follow these rules for their safety:

·         Never climb trees near power lines.  Even if the power lines aren't touching the tree, they could touch when more weight is added to the branch or if it is a windy day.

·         Kites and model airplanes should only be flown during good weather conditions in large open areas like an open park or a wide open field.  They should stay away from overhead power lines or other electrical equipment such as substations.  If a kite gets stuck in a tree that is near power lines, do not climb the tree to get it.  Electricity can travel down kite strings or wires. 

·         Never climb a utility pole or tower.  The electricity carried by this equipment is extremely high voltage and could severely burn you or kill you.

·         Don't play around pad-mounted electrical equipment.  These are green metal boxes that are actually electrical transformers on cement pads.

·         Never go into an electrical substation for any reason at any time, even if someone dares you. Substations contain very high-voltage equipment.  Any slight movement inside a substation, such as raising your hand can result in electric shock.  Never attempt to retrieve a pet, ball or any toy from these areas.

·         Immediately seek shelter if lightning or thunder is present while playing outdoors.

For more facts about keeping children safe visit the Howell-Oregon Electric Cooperative website at

www.hoecoop.org and click on the Safe Electricity.