Pepco Encourages Safety First When Near Electricity

WASHINGTON , D.C. - May is National Electrical Safety Month and Pepco is reminding everyone to review home, school and workplace electrical safety practices.

Electric shocks kill nearly 400 people and injure thousands nationally each year, according to the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI.org). Increasing electrical safety awareness, following electrical safety guidelines, and using tools and technology designed to address electrical hazards are all components of a safety program that can be used in your home, school or office. Wiring hazards are both a major cause of electrocutions and home fires, killing hundreds and injuring thousands each year. Contact with power lines and the misuse of major appliances, surge suppressors, power strips and extension cords also contribute to serious accidents and injuries.

"Everyone needs to be aware of the potential hazards involved with using electricity," said Thomas Graham, President, Pepco Region. "Many people work outdoors, trimming trees and using ladders and scaffolds," Graham said. "It's very important to know where electric wires and equipment are located and to work safely around them," he added. Avoid unnecessary risks when working around electricity by calling a licensed contractor or electrician.

Pepco urges everyone to call 811 a few days prior to the start of any projects that require digging. Underground utilities will be located and marked. This will help avoid equipment damage and injuries. Visit www.Call811.com for more information.

Here are some additional electrical safety tips from Pepco:

• Stay away from downed lines and report them immediately by calling 1-877-737-2662.
• Remind children to stay away from electric facilities such as substations, transmission towers and green electrical metal boxes that are commonly found in neighborhoods.
• When carrying long or tall items, such as ladders, tree saws and pool cleaning equipment, hold them parallel to the ground. Look up before you raise them to be sure they're clear of any electric, cable television or telephone lines.
• Remember that electricity can move through conductive materials, such as water, metal, wood, aluminum, string and plastics.
• Be careful to stay away from overhead lines when trimming trees or when working near your property's electrical connection.

Additional information may be found at www.pepco.com.

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Pepco, a subsidiary of Pepco Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: POM), delivers safe, reliable and affordable electric service to more than 789,000 customers in Maryland and the District of Columbia.