Christmas Lights
If you’re going to get festive and decorate your home for Christmas, take precautions to make sure you do it safely.
- Check your lights and replace burnt out bulbs and throw out any lights with damaged cords.
- If you leave your lights up year round, check for sun damage to cords.
- Always use extension cords rated for outdoor use.
Working Outdoors
Before starting on those summer home repair projects, take a few steps and plan to work safely.
- Learn where the power lines are and keep your equipment the appropriate distance.
- Contact EPCOR to find out the voltages on overhead lines.
- The appropriate safe distance, by default, without this knowledge, is 7 metres from overhead lines.
- Lower your ladder when moving it.
Tree Trimming
Trees or other vegetation sometimes grow too close to power lines or equipment, creating potential safety issues.
If trees are near power lines:
- do not trim the tree
- Call EPCOR at (780) 412-4500 or submit a request to have a tree trimmed if there's a power line close to or touching it.
If trees are not near power lines;
- Use a GFIC outlet for electric trimmers and chain saws.
- If possible, use battery operated or rechargeable hedge trimmers.
- Always unplug equipment before cleaning.
- Repair damaged blades, plugs or cords.
Mowing the Lawn
Be careful before you start cutting the grass. Whirring blades aren’t the only safety concern.
- Check that your tools are clean and in good shape with undamaged cords.
- Cut the grass starting near the electrical outlet, then gradually moving away to reduce risk of running over the cord.
- Mow grass only when it's dry.
- Repair damaged blades, plugs or cords.