7 Steps to Electrical Safety & Dig Safety

Electrical Safety

7 Steps to Electrical Safety

Electricity is a part of our everyday lives and must be treated with respect. Everyone should know the 7 Steps to Electrical Safety. Learn them and pass them on. Remember, they don't call it power for nothing!

 

1. 10 Metres to Safety

Stay back at least 10 metres (33 feet) from any fallen power line or exposed underground cable.

2. Look up and live

Look up, check and keep equipment clear of overhead power lines.

3. Know your limits

When using equipment in the vicinity of power lines, always maintain the limits of approach: from 3-7 metres (10-20 feet) depending on the voltage.

4. Don't hang around operating equipment

Stay at least 10 metres (33 feet) from operating equipment, in case it contacts an energized line.

 

5. Shuffle or hop - Don't Step

If your vehicle makes contact with an energized line remain inside until help arrives. If you must get out due to fire, jump out with your feet together. Then shuffle away, keeping both feet close together. Never contact the ground and your vehicle at the same time.

6. Don't become a victim

Always call local emergency personnel when someone is injured in an electrical accident.

7. Planning to Dig?

Planning to dig a garden, landscape, plant a large tree or install a fence, excavate a patio area or pool area, upgrade your driveway, repair your home's foundation, add a porch, deck or room to your home?

Call Before You Dig

Before you dig, please call Ontario One Call Ltd. for free.
Here's Why:

  • To avoid coming into contact with our underground electrical power lines;
  • Hitting a cable with a shovel or digger could cause severe injury, even death;
  • To avoid unnecessary damage to buried lines;
  • Homeowners or their contractors who cause damage are liable for the cost of repairs and could incur a costly lawsuit if adjacent property is damaged or someone is injured as a result;
  • Under Ontario regulations, it's against the law to dig without having a Locate


To request an underground cable Locate:
 


Please call at least five full business days before you plan to dig.

Ontario One Call will relay your locate request and information to us, as well as to other participating member utilities. In turn, NT Power Distribution Ltd. will provide you with a timely, free locate of our underground facilities so you can complete your project SAFELY.