Each season presents a unique set of electrical hazards, and summer is no exception. Awareness about these dangers will help keep you and your family safe. E-Con Electric, Inc., electrical contractors in Wisconsin Rapids, WI, shares a few of the most important safety tips.

Top 3 Electrical Safety Tips for Summer

1.  Use Caution Around Cooling Equipment

According to the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI), in 2011 there were over 40,000 hospitalizations caused by air conditioners, fans, humidifiers, and other cooling appliances. Be very careful around large cooling equipment, and under no circumstances should these appliances be in close proximity to water. To avoid injury and potential hospitalization, service work on cooling appliances should be left to professional electrical contractors. 

2. Keep Electrical Devices Away From Swimming Pools

While many of us enjoy listening to music while relaxing in a swimming pool, take strict precautions when doing so. All electrical devices—including stereos, speakers, and sound systems—should always be kept a safe distance from water. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, there have been 21 fatal electrocutions in American swimming pools since 2002.

3. Avoid Electrical Substations

If you stumble onto an electrical substation—large fenced-in areas with metal infrastructure used for electrical distribution—never enter it. These centers contain extreme high voltages that can cause immediate death. If a pet or someone else inadvertently trespasses onto a substation, do not attempt to rescue them yourself. Instead, call 911 as soon as possible.

Even if you're able to successfully avoid summer's electrical hazards, that doesn't mean you won't need the services of a professional electrician at some point during the hottest months of the year. Residents and businesses in greater Wisconsin Rapids trust the highly experienced team at E-Con Electric, Inc. The company's versatile electrical contractors handle problems big and small, commercial and residential, including lighting, generator installation, and emergency electrical repair. Visit the team's website to learn more about their wide range of residential services, or call the electrical contractors directly at (715) 423-8440.