• Never construct a house or anything under power lines


• Use nonconductive ladders when working near power lines


• Do not touch power lines


• Do not touch water that is in contact with power lines


• Do not plant trees under power lines


• Do not light fire near power lines
• Crane and lorry drivers should beware of overhead power lines.
• Drivers should always be careful and avoid knocking down electric poles as this may cause power lines to fall.

• Always keep a flashlight and extra batteries handy.


• Turn off or disconnect all appliances and any electronic equipments you were using when the power went out.


• Leave one light turned on so you will know when power returns.


• Use power surge protection equipment or gadgets to protect your electronic equipments from power fluctuation.
• If your house is the only one affected by power failure, it is either a fault in the main supply to your house or a faulty appliance or built-in wiring of your house. Call your electrician before you report to TANESCO.

GENERAL

• Do not use electric appliances in bathroom. If you use it make sure no part of it touches water.


• In case of electric fire, do not use water to put it out. Use a dry chemical fire extinguisher.


• Do not pull a plug by the rod. Switch plug off before pulling it out.


• Do not try fix faulty electrical appliances yourself. Always use a qualified electrician.


• Do not mount TV antennas near or under the power lines..


• Replace worn or frayed electrical cords as they can cause accidents.s.
• Do not use tape to join worn electrical cord, use proper connectors.s.
• Do not overload plugs.s.
• Do not run electric cords under carpets and rugs.s.
• Do not stick fingers into sockets.s.
• Teach your children not to play with any electrical equipment and sockets.
• Always dry your hands and wear shoes when using electrical appliances.

ELECTRIC SHOCKS

•  In case of any electrical shocks, the first thing to do is switch off the mains. If this is not possible, switch off the electricity at the wall where the appliance is plugged in.

• Try to plug the victim off by getting hold of his/her dry loose clothing. If this is not possible, protect your hands and insulate yourself by putting on dry rubber clothes, if not available, use several thick dry newspapers or non-conductors such as chair or broomstick.

• If the victim is still in contact with the appliance, the contact must be broken as quickly as possible.
• If breathing is irregular, apply artificial respiration and call a doctor or a nurse for help. Get the victim to the hospital as soon as possible.
• It is important that everybody, especially parents, should know the First Aid Treatment for electric shocks in homes. In all factories and industries, there must be public safety information brochures for treatment of victims of electric shocks.