Safety Tips

Similar to lightning, electricity is always striving to find a path to the ground. Should any part of your body come in contact directly or indirectly with an energized object, you have provided that pathway to the ground and therefore are in immediate danger.

Central Georgia EMC encourages you to remember the following safety rules:

Consider any electrical line dangerous. Keep all objects (kites, ladders, antennas, etc.) away from power lines.

Do not attempt to raise or move any electric lines
Do not use electrical appliances, like radios and hair dyers near water.
Do not plug too many things into one outlet.
Do not use a higher wattage light bulb than recommended.

Report to CGEMC any potential power line hazards, including trees growing into the lines. You can help CGEMC by reporting any conditions involving power lines or equipment which may need attention. By calling a CGEMC representative, you can help us keep the high cost of maintenance down and ensure power is available for all CGEMC members. Call if you see any of the following conditions:

Broken or badly leaning poles
Wires sagging too low
Trees growing into the lines
Broken insulators
Sparks coming from a main line or transformer
Grass fires burning near utility poles
Damaged or unlocked pad-mount transformers (those green boxes marked "Caution: High Voltage" located in some neighborhoods)

Always stay away from any electric line on the ground. Call CGEMC immediately.

Never touch a person or object in contact with a power line.

If your power lines are underground, call 1-800-282-7411 before you dig.

Please do not connect a generator without notifying CGEMC first.

Generator Safety

An improperly installed generator has the potential to kill our utility workers as well as your family, neighbors, livestock or pets. Please take the following precautions before operating a standby generator.

Have a licensed electrical contractor install disconnects and transfer switches to generator.
Store gasoline in approved containers only.
Ensure proper ventilation and airflow around the generator.
Keep an approved fire extinguisher near the generator.
Properly disconnect from electric utility service prior to starting a generator.
Check for exposed wires and frayed shielding when using extension cords.
Extinguish all flames or cigarettes before handling gasoline.
Keep children away from generators at all times.
Never run an electric generator inside a building, especially to an attached dwelling.
Never fuel an electric generator when the generator is operating.
Never remove or tamper with safety devices; they are there to protect you and your property.
Never attempt to repair an electric generator; only qualified servicemen should perform repairs.