Dangerous severe weather is predicted for our area this weekend, particularly for Saturday afternoon and evening. Remember it's wise to have multiple, reliable ways of getting weather alerts. Weather apps are great, but the NOAA Weather Radios work even when cell towers are down and/or the power is out. CEC is prepared to respond 24/7 in the event of power outages. If we experience severe damage to our electric distribution system, restoration times could take longer but you can rest assure our crews will be working as safely and quickly as possible to restore service. Please remind others to ALWAYS stay far away from downed power lines and also stay away from downed trees that could have power lines intertwined and are not easily seen. Safety is our first priority and that goes for our employees, our CEC members and the public at large. Stay weather aware this weekend and if you experience a power outage, or see a hazard relating to any part of our system, please call 800-239-1193 or use the free CEC app to report it. We say this all the time, but please do NOT use social media to report a power outage or hazard. Thank you.
Electrical Safety & Children
Electricity is a dynamic power source. We live our lives surrounded by it, but sometimes we forget just how dangerous electricity can be. Many home electrical fires, injuries and electrocutions can be prevented when we understand and practice electrical safety. This is especially true for our youngest co-op members.
Throughout the year, Covington Electric Cooperative helps teach youngsters about electricity. CEC employees conduct electrical safety demonstrations at schools and special events throughout the year upon request. But as your child’s first and most important teacher, perhaps it’s time to have a talk with your sons and daughters to reinforce those lessons.
Start at an early age, teaching them about the physical dangers associated with electrical components and how to handle electrical plugs, outlets, switches and other devices. Keep in mind, talking to your children about electrical safety should also include fun activities and facts about the basics—what is electricity, the need to respect its power and how to use it efficiently as they study, work and play.
Just remember that what your children learn from you today can be a lifesaver later when they encounter potential hazards like downed power lines in their path, play hide-and-seek behind those big metal electrical boxes or are tempted to climb up a utility pole.
Look around. There are plenty of opportunities to demonstrate safety that are as close as the electrical outlet on your living room wall. For example, show young children how plugs work, and let them know that even if they are curious about the slits of an electrical outlet, nothing else should be placed inside.
Each year about 2,400 children end up in the emergency room after suffering injuries caused by inserting objects—paper clips, pens, screws, nails, forks, hair pins, coins and more—into electrical receptacles. That’s about seven children a day who sustain injuries ranging from electric shock to burns. But this isn’t the only electrical mishap that impacts youngsters. Our reliance on electronics and gadgets have left both youngsters and their parents at risk when they overcrowd electrical outlets, continue to use frayed wires, place devices near liquids or leave electronics on for long periods of time.
Teach children never to fly kites near power lines or climb trees near power lines. Children should also stay away from guy wires which are designed to add stability to utility poles.
Supplement your lessons at home with free resources online or those provided by CEC. The Electrical Safety Foundation International. ESFI is among the many national organizations offering free kits, videos and interactive online tools that make learning and practicing electrical safety fun for you and your children. To visit ESFI website. Click Here