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Jun 09, 2025

NIPSCO Marks Electrical Safety Month by Sharing Tips to Keep Customers and Communities Safe - NWI.Life

May is National Electrical Safety Month, and Northern Indiana Public Service Company LLC (NIPSCO) is committed to helping the public stay safe by sharing essential electrical safety tips and guidelines. Electrical Safety Month is a time to raise awareness about the importance of preventing electric-related injuries, deaths and fires.

“It’s essential to remember that electrical safety begins with education,” said Orville Cocking, Senior Vice President of Electric Operations at NIPSCO. “Awareness and quick action can prevent injuries and save lives at home and in the workplace.”

What to Do if You Find a Downed Power Line

Downed wires can pose serious risks, including electric shock and fire hazards. Therefore, it is important to consider all downed wires as energized and dangerous, even if it appears that the wire is not live.

If a downed wire is encountered, follow these safety tips:

Keep in mind that if you see trees near power lines, that can also pose serious risks.Sometimes after storms, branches can break and trees can fall, pulling down power lines.Treat this as an emergency and follow the tips above on what to do if you encounter adowned power line.

Power Generator Safety: Use Caution and Prevent Hazards

Generators are handy when it comes to outages; however, it is crucial to make sure thateveryone is taking steps to stay safe when using them. Below are some tips to follow.

Ladder Safety: Ladders and Electricity Don't Mix

Outdoor spring projects are underway, and it is important to note that ladders andelectricity pose safety risks. When completing outside work and carrying a ladder, makesure to use caution when carrying the ladder near overhead electrical lines.

Remember these tips:

Additional Electric Safety Tips:

To learn more about electrical safety, visit NIPSCO.com/Safety/Electrical-Safety.

By:Last Updated:What to Do if You Find a Downed Power Line Stay Away and Keep Others AwaySecure the AreaCall 911Call NIPSCO’s 24/7 Electric Emergency HotlineWait for AssistancePower Generator Safety: Use Caution and Prevent HazardsUse Generators Outside OnlyUse Only Outdoor-Rated, Grounded Extension CordsDon’t Plug a Generator into a Regular Household OutletUse a Different Extension Cord to Power Your HomeUse a Transfer Switch to Prevent “Back-Feed”Avoid Overloading the GeneratorKeep Children and Pets SafeTurn it Off SafelyLadder Safety: Ladders and Electricity Don't MixStay 10 Feet Away from Power LinesUse Fiberglass LaddersUse Caution Near TreesBe Aware of the SurroundingsAdditional Electric Safety Tips:Inspect Electrical Cords and EquipmentUse Extension Cords SafelyKeep Water Away from ElectricityUnplug Unused AppliancesUse Childproof OutletsAvoid DIY Electrical Work
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