(NAPSA)—Changing seasons does not mean a changein the need for electrical safety awareness. Keep the following safety tips from the Electrical Safety Foundation International in mind to prevent devastating property loss, injury or death dueto electrical accidents. Electric blankets Make sure electric blankets are in good repair, certified by an independent testing lab such as UL, CSA or ETL, and power cords are not worn orcut. Do not tuck your electric blanket into mattresses or under children and don’t put comforters or bedspreads on top of the blanket while in use. Never allow pets to sleep on electric blankets. Outdoor tools and appliances Check tools and 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 until spring. Use weatherproof electrical devices for outside activities. Protect them from moisture and keep dry leaves away from electrical items. Holiday lighting, decorations and costumes Ensure holiday lighting and extension cords are in good repair and are certified by an independent testing lab such as UL, CSA or ETL. Use them as rated for indoor or outdoor use. Never connect more than three strands of lights and extension cords together. Make sure all connections are tight and protected from inclement weather, including the outlet. Unplug the lights from the outlet during daytime. Make sure spotlights used to highlight decorations are well-ventilated, protected from weather, and a safe distance from flammable items. Keep power and extension cords out of walkways. Do not coil power cords or extension cords while in use. Do not tuck them under rugs, carpets, curtains or other flammable materials. “Electrical accidents can be lethal,” says Michael G. Clendenin, executive director of ESFT. “It’s better to take one too many precau- tions than one too few.” For electrical safety tips, visit ESFT’s Web site at www.electrical-safety.org or call 703-841-3229.
