Indoor Safety

• Don’t use electrical appliances around wet areas like bathtubs or sinks.
• Dry your hands before using electrical appliances.
• Keep electric heaters on level surfaces and 6-8 feet from furniture, curtains and drapes.


Wires/Fuses/Outlets

• Use childproof covers for outlets.
• Only insert electrical plugs into outlets.
• Inspect electrical/extension cords for wear and tear.
• Flickering lights, unusual smells and power interruptions could be signs that there is a problem – check all appliances and panels.
• The third prong on extension cords is a safety feature designed to reduce the risk of electrocution or shock and should never be bent back or removed.

Prevent Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

The effects of carbon monoxide poisoning are difficult to detect. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, tasteless and poisonous gas.

• Have chimneys, heating vents and furnaces professionally cleaned and maintained.
• Install carbon monoxide detectors throughout your home.

Natural Gas Safety Tips

• If you smell natural gas – leave your home immediately and call your gas provider from another location. Do not use your cell phone! Arcing or sparks could ignite gases.
• Don’t store cleaning supplies, paint or chemicals near natural gas appliances, such as water heaters, dryers, stoves or furnaces.

Heating

• Have a licensed, qualified heating technician maintain your furnace or heating system.
• Change heating system filters to keep air passing through.
• Replace batteries in your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms.

Source: Safe Electricity

Electrical Fire Prevention

• Install ground fault circuit interrupters in areas near water, including bathrooms, kitchens, garages, basements and outdoors.

• Arc fault circuit interrupters should be installed directly in the breaker box to protect against fires caused by arcing faults in home electrical wiring.

• Check the electrical outlets in your home for loose-fitting plugs, broken wall plates and missing or frayed wiring.

• Do not overload outlets with appliances and adapters.

• Cords that are frayed, cracked or broken should be discarded. Avoid running cords under rugs or heavily traveled areas in the home.

• Remember that extension cords are intended for temporary use and should not act as permanent power supplies.

• Avoid using light bulbs that exceed the recommended wattage.

• If an appliance appears to be damaged or broken, or has repeatedly blown a fuse, unplug it and have it repaired or replaced.

• Light switches that feel hot or spark should be immediately turned off and inspected by a qualified electrician.

Source: Safe Electricity

If you receive an unexpected call, email, or visit from someone claiming to be a Central Georgia EMC employee, be cautious—it could be a scam. Scammers are increasingly targeting members by pretending to represent the cooperative.

These imposters may:

• Threaten to disconnect your power within 30 minutes unless you make an immediate payment.
• Try to sell fake products or services claiming they will lower your electricity bill.
• Pose as contractors “working for Central Georgia EMC” and offer to trim your trees for a fee.

Central Georgia EMC will never demand instant payment or request financial information over the phone or at your door. Always verify the identity of anyone claiming to represent Central Georgia EMC before taking action.