Pacific Power Cautions About Home Work

Look up and live is the message from Pacific Power as the weather warms and people are doing more work around their home or office.

Spokesman Tom Gaunt says they are just reminding everyone to watch for power lines, especially during home projects that involve climbing on roofs.

Just pay attention to where you move your ladder around. Look up. Pay attention to where those power lines are located.

Gaunt says many people also get into trouble when trimming trees near power lines. Sometimes large branches can pull down the lines, so Gaunt urges do-it-yourselfers to be careful or hire a tree trimmer. Just don’t forget to look up and live, he emphasizes.

Here are some more tips to keep you safe.

• Note the location of overhead electrical wires while working and when moving equipment, as well as when installing, removing, cleaning or repairing rain gutters.
• Check for nearby electrical wires before pruning trees.
• When painting a house, note where power lines connect to the house and keep ladders, scaffolding and other equipment away from lines.
• If moving, adjusting or installing an antenna or satellite dish, keep well away from electrical wires.
• Be extra cautious on roofs.
• Playing catch is a time-honored rite of spring, but keep clear of lines so that you always make it home safe.
• Flying kites is another fun part of spring, but do it away from overhead power lines and make sure kids have adult supervision.

As always, stay away to stay safe. If you spot an electrical wire down, keep everyone out of the area (including pets) and immediately call 9-1-1 or Pacific Power at 1-877-508-5088.