Review the Safety Basics

The right way:

DO cover all electrical outlets and wall switches with cover plates, and replace any that are damaged.

DO make sure all electrical devices are in good repair.

DO use extension cords and “cheater” plugs only on a temporary basis.

DO use a quality surge suppresser with enough sockets for every component.

DO keep all electrical devices away from water sources.

DO flag the fuse or breaker switch so no one else touches it while you're working.

DO install a carbon monoxide detector near the living and sleeping areas of your home.

DO leave at least 18 inches of clearance around your gas furnace and water heater, and at least on e inch around gas stoves and clothes dryers.

DO keep paints, papers, aerosol sprays and other flammables away from gas appliances.

DO make sure the vent hood, pipes and flues on your gas appliances aren't blocked, cracked or corroded.

DO have GFCI outlets and waterproof covers on all outdoor outlets.

DO look out for overhead power lines every time you use a ladder or pole. Stay at least 10 feet away from any electrical lines.

DO call a professional for help trimming trees near power lines.

DO keep electrical devices and cords away from water.

DO keep children and pets away from utility equipment, including meters and transformers.

The wrong way:

DON'T yank electrical cords from the wall - this can damage both the plug and the outlet.

DON'T attach a cord to another surface with nails or staples - it can damage the insulation.

DON'T use damaged or brittle electrical cords, even if bare wires aren't visible.

DON'T attempt to fix an electrical appliance or tool while the unit is plugged in.

DON'T plug one extension cord into another.

DON'T run cords under furniture - it can damage the insulating cover.

DON'T store or stack boxes, laundry or other materials around the base of a gas appliance.

DON'T let kids play on or around gas equipment, including meters and pipes.

DON'T wear long sleeves around a gas stove, and keep towels and potholders away from the open flame.

DON'T try to use a gas oven or range to heat a room.

DON'T assume the black coating on wires is insulation - it could be just plastic weatherproofing that provides no protection from contact injuries.

DON'T let kids climb trees or fly kites near power lines.

DON'T disguise transformers or meters with paint or bushes - a utility worker might need to work safely around it or find it quickly in an emergency.

DON'T hang signs on utility poles. Nail, staples or tacks can pose a big danger to workers who must climb the poles.

DON'T tamper with an electric meter (it's dangerous and illegal), and keep it free of ice and snow during the winter.