All electric lines, transformers, sub-stations, and other equipment should be treated as “live” and extremely dangerous. Children should avoid playing in places that pose a risk.
Underground Lines – Call Before You Dig (CBYD)
If you hit an underground line while digging, you could be seriously injured and/or liable for damages. Before digging or moving earth, call 811, the local, one-call utility locating service to identify all underground utility lines.
Tree Safety
Contact MPD Electric Cooperative (MPD) before pruning, trimming, or cutting down trees that are near overhead electric lines. Children should avoid climbing trees that are near overhead power lines.
High-Voltage Towers
Stay clear. Period. Never touch or climb on these towers.
Overhead Electric Lines
Keep your distance! When carrying and using ladders and other long tools, make sure to keep them at least 10 feet away from all overhead lines, including the line from the power pole to your home.
Kites & Balloons
Fly them away from power lines. If they contact power lines, it could cause shock or fire. Play it safe and keep them away from overhead electric lines.
Substations
Stay out. Tell children that if a ball or toy gets into a substation, they should tell an adult, who should call MPD. Never retrieve the toy yourself.
Pad-Mounted Transformers
Don’t dig near them or try to open them. Transformers are contained inside sturdy metal cabinets that are locked for safety. Never sit on or near them. If you find one that’s unlocked, please call MPD immediately.
Generator Safety
A generator can be very useful, but can also pose a danger. When connecting a generator to a main electrical supply, rely on a trained electrician.
Important safety precautions when using a portable generator:
- Read all instructions carefully and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations
- Never run your generator indoors or in your garage. Generators should only be run in a well-ventilated area
- Plug appliances directly into the generator using heavy-duty, properly grounded, extension cords
- Extension cords should not be frayed or worn
- Limit the electrical load placed on the generator to no more than the recommended wattage
- Do not connect a generator directly to your home’s main fuse box or circuit panel
- Use the generator only when necessary
- Turn off the generator while you sleep and when you are away from home
If you have any questions about how to properly use a portable electric generator, contact the manufacturer or a licensed electrician for assistance.
A Proper Generator Connection is Vital
The proper way to connect a generator to your home’s electric system is through a double-pole, double-throw transfer switch.
This switch disconnects your electric system from MPD’s power lines and will:
- Eliminate the possibility of allowing your generator to send electricity onto MPD’s line, which is extremely dangerous and potentially deadly for our linemen who are working on a line that is thought to be de-energized
- Eliminate the possibility of destroying an improperly connected generator when MPD restores power
Meters & Equipment
All MPD’s meters and equipment must be accessible by its trained technicians. If you enclose an underground service transformer or a power pole with a fence or shrubbery, you must leave a 10-foot opening to allow for service and repairs. Your meter must be accessible as well. All plantings must be at least four feet from transformers, poles, and meters. And, don’t forget to allow enough distance for all plants to mature.
Lastly, unexpected home emergencies and repairs can require meters to be disconnected. Please call the MPD office to have your service temporarily disconnected by a trained professional. Meter-tampering is illegal.
For more information, please contact us.