News

Safety tips for a new season

Sep 23, 2022

Power for Progress… a weekly column from the Grand River Dam Authority.

Maybe the weather is not fully cooperating just yet, but the calendar makes it official this week: fall has arrived.

So as one season gives way to the next and fall returns for a visit, it is also a great time to revisit some important electric safety tips specific for the new season. With that in mind, the Grand River Dam Authority passes along these fall weather tips from the Electric Safety Foundation International:

• Safely store warm weather tools like lawnmowers and trimmers. Check cold weather tools, such as leaf and snow blowers, along with their power cords, for unusual wear and tear. Repair or replace worn tools or parts right away.
• Unplug and safely store battery chargers that won’t be in use again until spring.
• Use only weatherproof electrical devices for outside activities. Protect outdoor electrical devices from moisture. Make sure wet electrical equipment is inspected and reconditioned by a certified repair dealer.
• Keep dry leaves swept away from outdoor lighting, outlets, and power cords.
• Make sure electric blankets are in good repair and certified by an independent testing lab such as UL, CSA, or ETL. Power cords should not be frayed, cracked, or cut.
• Do not tuck your electric blanket under mattresses or children, and do not put anything, such as comforters or bedspreads, on top of the blanket while it is in use.
• Never allow pets to sleep on an electric blanket.

These are just a few tips intended to help you transition from summer to fall in a safe manner. Your friends at GRDA want you to stay safe, no matter the season.

GRDA is Oklahoma’s largest public power electric utility; fully funded by revenues from electric and water sales instead of taxes. Each day, GRDA strives to be an “Oklahoma agency of excellence” by focusing on the 5 E’s: employees, electricity, economic development, environmental stewardship, and efficiency.