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1. What do you do when the skies are clear but the storm is on the way?

Check out our handy advice on the back page of the July Safety Messenger (PDF). These handy quick-tips can help in a pinch when you suspect that a storm is on the way. Then make sure to download Your Guide to Storm Safety (PDF) for more details to prepare for a long-duration outage. Readiness counts!

2. What are the things everyone should check off the list to use electricity safely in their home?

Our friends at the Electric Safety Foundation International have provided a checklist (PDF) so that you can perform your own electrical safety inspection. Whether you're looking for a new home, just moving in or your older home hasn't been updated in a while, now's the time to take a look at these important clues.

3. What new devices can keep you safe?

Check out the January 2017 Safety Messenger (PDF) for information on electrical safety devices for the home.

4. How many strings of holiday lights can I string together without blowing a circuit?

UL listed lights state a maximum of 210 watts can be connected when using 22 gauge wire (the thinnest wire in use, typical of mini-lights). In this case, most traditional incandescent Christmas mini-lights only allow you to connect 4 or 5 sets end to end but with many LED mini light strings you can connect 40 to 50 or more together depending on the light count.

Consider your circuits:

• Most household circuits are 15 or 20 amps
• 15 amp circuits support 1,800 watts at 80% capacity (maximum recommendation)
• 20 amp circuits support 2,400 watts at 80% capacity (maximum recommendation)

Calculate your total number of bulbs times their wattage to plan maximum string connections and outlet capacity. Visit the Christmas Lights Etc. website to learn more about holiday lighting details like comparing the cost to run older incandescent lights to new LED lights - for example, 1,000 LED mini-lights only use 69 watts in comparison to the 408 watts used by 1,000 incandescent mini-lights.

5. Can you tell me a bit about carbon monoxide and how it especially presents dangers in cold weather?

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a deadly gas that can fill your house while you sleep and even while you're awake. It's invisible, has no odor, and often escapes undetected - unless you have a CO detector working in your home. Read about this unwanted visitor and important signs to look for in our November 2016 Safety Messenger (PDF). Make sure it doesn't go undetected!

6. How should I get out of my car if power lines fall onto it while I'm in it?

The best option is to stay put and call for help. Stay inside your car until our crews check to make sure the line isn't live (always assume it is!). If you absolutely must get out to stay safe, then carefully keep your hands at your sides and jump out so that you are not touching the vehicle when your feet hit the ground, and shuffle away. Shuffling keeps both feet in contact with the ground and very close to each other. Keep shuffling until you are at least three car lengths away (about 40 feet).