With Spring weather encouraging homeowners to start outdoor projects, Ameren warns consumers to be aware of potential electric hazards they may encounter.
Keep electrical equipment at least ten feet away from water. To prevent shocks, use a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI), which shuts off power flow as needed.
Mark underground utility lines before digging in your yard, even for small projects like installing a mailbox or planting trees. Call 811 at least three business days before digging to mark underground utilities.
When trimming vegetation or using ladders, stay away from overhead power lines.
Before plugging into an exterior electrical socket, double-check that the item is approved for outdoor use. If the device is, it should have a label indicating this on its packaging.
Avoid running cords through door or window openings where they can be damaged, and use a GFCI instead.
For more safety tips, visit Ameren.com/Safety.
