For kids, parents and teachers
Kids & School Safety
Electricity is a big part of everyday life, so it is never too early to learn how to stay safe around it. Share these simple rules with the kids in your life.
Playing outside
Outdoor Safety Rules
Look up before you play
Fly kites, drones and model airplanes in big open spaces far away from power lines. If something gets stuck in a line, leave it and tell an adult.
Do not climb near lines
Never climb trees that are near power lines or climb utility poles. Branches can bend and touch the wires.
Stay out of substations
Substations have fences and warning signs for a reason. If a ball or pet gets inside, ask an adult to call McKenzie Electric.
Green boxes are not for playing
The green metal boxes on the ground are pad-mounted transformers. Do not sit, climb or play on them.
Stay away from fallen wires
If you see a power line on the ground, stay far away and tell an adult right away. Never touch it or anything near it.
Head inside in a storm
If you hear thunder or see lightning, go inside right away. Stay out of floodwater, which can hide electrical dangers.
At home and school
Indoor Safety Rules
Outlets, cords and chargers are everywhere. Teach kids to treat them with care.
- Never put fingers or objects into an outlet.
- Keep electronics and chargers away from water, and always have dry hands.
- Pull the plug, not the cord.
- Tell an adult about cords that are frayed, cracked or hot.
- Do not charge phones or tablets on beds or under pillows.
Grown-ups
For Parents and Teachers
Kids often do not recognize electrical equipment as dangerous. The best thing you can do is point it out and explain it.
- Point out overhead lines, poles, pad-mounted transformers and substations to children.
- Install tamper resistant receptacles and GFCI outlets near water.
- Never put playsets, trampolines or pools under or near power lines.
- Call 811 before digging for a playground, garden or fence.
In the classroom
Bring safety to your school or group
Teachers and group leaders can contact McKenzie Electric to ask about electrical safety education for students.
Report outages, downed lines or hazards
Call McKenzie Electric Cooperative. Crews are on call 24/7.