(NAPSA)—TheElectrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) has issued a safety checklist to keep electrical safety in mind during the change of seasons. “Now is an ideal time to address potentially lethal electrical hazards,” noted Anne Mayberry, ESFI program manager. Outdoor Tools Safely store warm weather tools such as lawn mowers and trimmers. Check cold weather tools, such as leaf- and snow-blow- ers, along with their powercords, and repair or replace worn parts. Use weatherproof electrical devices for outside activities and protect them from moisture. Keep dry leaves swept away from outdoor lighting, outlets and power cords. Holiday Decorations And Costumes Ensure that holiday lighting and extension cords are in good repair, with no fraying, cracking or cuts, and are certified by an independent testing lab such as UL, CSA or ETL. They should be rated appropriately, for indoor or outdoor use. Never connect more than three strands of decorative lights together. Make sure connections are tight and protected from inclement weather, including the outlet. Unplug the lights from the outlet when notin use. Make sure spotlights used to highlight decorations are well ventilated, protected from weather and are a safe distance from flammable shrubs and bushes, dry leaves or fabric decorations. Keep power and extension cords out of pathways. * Do not coil power cords or extension cords while in use. Do not tuck them underrugs, carpets or curtains. They may overheat, causinga fire. Electricity and costumes do not mix. Wrapping yourself in holiday lights is asking for disaster. Electric Blankets Make sureelectric blankets are in good repair andcertified 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 into mattresses or under children and don’t put anything on top of the blanket while in use, such as comforters or bedspreads. Never allow pets to sleep on the electric blanket. For these and other related safety tips, visit the ESFI Web site at www.electrical-safety.org or call 703-841-3229.
