North Carolina's Electric Cooperatives Observe May as Electrical Safety Month

Improper electricity use and electrical problems caused nearly 45,000 home fires resulting in 470 deaths, 1,500 injuries and $1.6 billion in property damage in 2009, according to statistics from the National Fire Protection Association. Additionally, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, nearly 400 people in the United States are electrocuted each year.

To recognize the importance of electrical safety, North Carolina’s electric cooperatives, in accordance with Gov. Beverly Perdue’s official proclamation, are observing May as Electrical Safety Month.

With electrical safety education and awareness, the numbers of lost lives, injuries and lost money can be drastically reduced.  Most deaths and injuries from electricity can be avoided.  Understanding the benefits and dangers of electricity can help prevent potential hazards in homes, schools and workplaces.

For more than 70 years, North Carolina’s electric cooperatives have provided safe, reliable and affordable electricity to rural parts of the state.  Electric cooperatives continue to make the safety of their members and employees a top priority. 

“Recognizing May as Electrical Safety Month has given the electric cooperatives an opportunity to concentrate on the pertinent issue of safe electricity use in North Carolina,” said Laura Heitsenrether, marketing and communications specialist.  “May is a perfect time to reacquaint ourselves with some basics, like reading safety instructions on electrical appliances and products, paying attention to safety markings on electrical equipment and checking power cords to see if they are in proper working condition.”

As part of its safety efforts, CHEC has been actively spreading awareness about the dangers of flying kites and kite boarding around power lines.  Hatteras Island offers some of the best kite boarding conditions in the world and each year more people visit the island to enjoy the sport.  There have been several incidents of kites becoming entangled in electric power lines.  This can result in loss of electric power, serious injury and possibly loss of life.  CHEC strives to encourage responsible kiting and make residents and visitors aware of the dangers of flying kites in hazardous areas. 

Cape Hatteras Electric Cooperative provides electricity to over 5,500 members on Hatteras Island, and CHEC is always looking out for you – our members.  Please contact us if you have any electric safety concerns.  Do not take chances when it comes to electrical safety.