Electrical Safety

Outlets

• Avoid overloading outlets and circuits.
• Consider installing GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupters) in areas that may be exposed to water.
• Per the National Electrical Code, GFCI outlets should already be installed in places like outdoor outlets, bathrooms, kitchens, laundry room, etc. If you do not have them in your home, contact a certified electrician.
• Utilize outlet covers when outlets are not in use, especially if young children are in the home.

Electricity and Water

• Avoid using power tools when the ground is wet or while standing in water.
• Do not touch electrical appliances when in water.

Appliances and Cords

• Unplug small appliances when not in use or when planning to travel.
• Ensure your electrical system at home is free of damage.
• Do not use electrical items with frayed or damaged cords.
• Avoid placing rugs or carpet over electrical cords.
• Always handle electric appliances/tools with dry hands.

Power Issues

• If you regularly reset breakers, have lights that flicker, replace fuses, see sparks, etc. it is best to contact an electrical contractor to perform an inspection and make any repairs if necessary.
• In the state of Colorado, electricians are unable to pull your meter without prior notice to CORE. If you are aware of work that needs to be completed and the meter is to be pulled, ensure your electrician contacts CORE.
• If your meter has been pulled for 6+ months (or on 12+ months for an irrigation account) you must have an inspection completed prior to your service being reconnected.

Digging

• Calling 811 or visit www.Colorado811.org to request a utility locate before you plan to break ground on any outdoor project.

Landscaping

• If you have landscaping that may contact power lines, please contact CORE.
• Always ensure any part of your landscaping (trees, bushes, fence, etc.) is at least 1 foot 6 inches clear to the side and rear of equipment and 10 feet away from the front of any electrical equipment.
• Plant trees at least 20 feet from all power poles and structures.
• If trees are near power lines, let CORE know and we will have professionals mitigate it.

Look Up, Stay alive

• Avoid flying kites, model airplanes/rockets, etc. near power lines.
• Do not release balloons near power lines.
• Do not climb or touch trees that may be in contact with a power line.

Downed Power Lines

• Do not touch or approach power lines.
• Call CORE right away at (800) 332-9540 if you see a downed power line.
• Do not touch anything that may be in contact with the power line.

Vehicle/Equipment Contacting Power Lines

• STOP, STAY, CALL
• If the vehicle or equipment you are operating comes into contact with a power line, stop what you are doing immediately.
• Stay where you are. Do not move the vehicle or equipment from your current position, even if you are in contact with a power line.
• Call 911 and CORE. Remain in your vehicle or equipment.
• If you must exit, do so while not contacting the vehicle and the ground at the same time. Do your best to jump out of the vehicle or equipment with your arms near your body and with your feet together.
• If you can safely stay in your vehicle or equipment, do so until a CORE employee is present and instructs you to exit as it is now safe.

Backfeed

If you have a generator that is connected to your building’s wiring, back-feed can occur. This poses a great risk of electrical shock to anyone including lineworkers that may be working on the power system. If this were to occur, your generator could be severely damaged or destroyed once power has been restored.

How To Avoid Backfeed?

• If you must connect your generator to your buildings wiring system, contact a licensed electrician to discuss a transfer switch or interlock.
• You can find additional information regarding Generation Interconnections here.

Electrical Contact

• Call 911
• Do not touch anyone that may have been exposed to electrical shock
• Turn off the power

Equipment

• If you find power equipment (power lines, transformers, switch cabinets, etc.) that are down, unlocked, opened, etc., contact CORE right away.