Kids Outdoor Electrical Safety

Electrical Safety
for Kids

Basics of Electricity

What is Electricity?

Within an atom there are protons, neutrons and
electrons. Electrons have a negative charge and move
around the nucleus of an atom, creating a circuit - a
complete path. As the electrons move around the
circuit, they create electricity.

Conductors vs. Insulators

If something is a conductor, electricity can flow
through that material (examples: metal and water).
Insulators are the opposite, they do not allow
electricity to flow (examples: rubber and plastic).

How is Electricity
Generated and Transmitted?

Electricity can be generated using solar, oil, coal, nat-
ural gas, nuclear, water or wind. Most of our electricity
is generated in steam-powered plants using coal, oil,
or natural gas. An electric current is produced and the
electric current is then sent through power lines.

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Conducting Electricity

While electricity is very useful and helpful in our lives, it
is also a very powerful source of energy. It is important
that you use electricity carefully and use caution when
you are in a dangerous situation involving electricity.

What Path Does Electricity Take?

As electricity flows, it is always looking for the fastest
way to the ground. It will travel through any conductor it
can find - metal, water or even people.

How Can Electricity Travel through a Body?

The human body is made up of mostly water. This makes
us a very good conductor of electricity. If you are in the
path of electricity, it will flow through you.

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Outdoor Safety

Playing outside can be a lot of fun, but if you are play-
ing near power lines it can be extremely dangerous.
Follow these simple rules to help you stay safe:
• Do not try to climb utility poles and stay away
from substation fences and electrical equipment.
• Look in all directions before climbing a tree. Make
sure the tree is not close to any electric lines.
• Keep kites, balloons, and model airplanes away from
electric lines. Never touch the string of a kite that
gets tangled in electric lines and make sure no one else
comes near.
• Remember that water is a conductor of electricity.
Never play in a pool beneath electric lines and do not
ever put anything electric in water. Also, avoid going
in or near water during thunderstorms.

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Digging Outdoors

What to Do When You Need to Dig

Buried lines could be hiding anywhere underground. If
your family needs to dig in the yard, it is important to
first call 811. After calling 811, all of the utility compa-
nies (electric, gas, water, phone, etc.) will come to your
home and mark where all of their lines are buried.
Digging without calling 811 could be very dangerous,
possibly causing electrocution or a gas leak.
Always Call 811 Before Digging!

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