If you're a parent or teacher, be sure to check out the Alliant Energy Kids Web site - it's filled with interactive games, puzzles and activities designed to teach kids how to use electricity and natural gas safely.

You'll also find information on our popular Alliant Energy Kids classroom curriculum. Developed by education specialists for third- and fourth-graders, the lesson plans feature engaging activities that address national standards in science, health and language arts.

In-class presentations by Alliant Energy experts help reinforce the safety messages with question-and-answer sessions, group games and hands-on props.

Top ten electrical safety tips for kids:

DON'T plug a bunch of stuff into one outlet or extension cord. It could damage the electrical system in your house or even cause a fire.
DO ask grown-ups to put safety caps on all unused electrical outlets. Covering outlets will also help save energy by stopping cold drafts.
DON’T yank an electrical cord from the wall. Pulling on a cord can damage the appliance, the plug or the outlet.
DO make sure all electric cords are tucked away, neat and tidy. Pets might chew on electrical cords, and people might trip and fall.
DO ask a grown-up for help when you need to use something that uses electricity.
DO look up and look out for power lines before you climb a tree. The electricity can go right through the tree branch - and right through you!
DON'T ever climb the fence around an electrical substation. If a ball or pet gets inside the fence, ask a grown-up to call the electric company - they'll come and get it out for you.
DO remind your mom or dad to watch out for power lines when they're using a ladder, chainsaw or other outdoor equipment.
DO keep electrical stuff far away from water. Most electrical accidents around the house happen when people use electricity near water.
DON’T fly a kite near power lines. The kite and the string may conduct electricity – sending it right through you to the ground.

More electrical safety just for kids

Top ten natural gas safety tips for kids:

DO remember that a natural gas leak smells like rotten eggs. If a really bad smell happens all of a sudden, get out of the house right away and find a grown-up.
DO ask your mom or dad to install a carbon monoxide detector. It works like a smoke detector to keep your family safe.
DON'T hang on pipes in the basement or jump on the meter outside. The pipes might come loose, letting the gas escape. And remind grown-ups to keep the outside meter clear in case of an emergency.
DO help the grown-ups in your house keep little kids away from gas appliances. You can help them put safety covers on the knobs.
DO be very careful using a gas stove. Roll up your sleeves, keep towels and hot pads away from the flame, and make sure a grown-up is around to help.
DO remind grown-ups to call before they dig. If you’re helping someone dig a hole, it’s very important to have underground utility lines marked before you start.
DON'T ever try to use a gas appliance to keep warm. Using a gas appliance the wrong way can cause deadly carbon monoxide. If the power goes out, bundle up in layers of clothes instead.
DON’T pile up boxes, paints or anything else around a gas appliance. Boxes, paint and other chemicals are a fire hazard, and appliances need oxygen to run properly, just like people need air to breathe.
DO remind grown-ups to have appliances inspected every year. This is the best way to keep your family safe.
DON’T play around or try to move a gas appliance. The piping or connector that feeds gas to the appliance might get damaged or come loose.

More natural gas safety just for kids