NEWARK, Del. (June 23, 2016) - As part of National Safety Month and its ongoing efforts to promote electrical safety, Delmarva Power is reminding customers about the dangers of working around overhead power lines.

Outdoor home improvement projects and summer activities may bring customers closer to overhead powerlines.

"Summer is here and with it brings the enjoyment of backyard activities, home improvement projects and water sports," said Gary Stockbridge, Delmarva Power region president. "We ask that you take the time to follow and share these simple safety recommendations as well as making safety an important beginning and end to every day this summer."

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), there are nearly 400 electrocutions in the United States each year: 

• 8 percent of consumer product-related electrocutions each year are attributed to electrical accidents with power drills, saws, sanders, hedge trimmers and other electric power tools.
• 9 percent of consumer product-related electrocutions each year are caused by accidents involving the use of lawn and garden equipment and ladders, which come into contact with overhead power lines.

Delmarva Power reminds customers that safety is paramount and when working on home improvement projects or enjoying water sports and activities, to consider the following safety tips:

• Before digging for any project, dial 811 to arrange for any utility lines to be marked.
• Keep ladders and other tools at least 10 feet from overhead power lines.
• Do not climb or trim trees near power lines.
• Keep electric tools and appliances away from wet surfaces including pools and patios.
• Always maintain a distance of at least 10 feet between your water craft and nearby power lines (both underground and overhead). 
• Don't allow yourself or anyone else to swim near docks. Avoid entering the water when launching or loading your boat.
• Have your water craft's electrical system inspected and checked for safety upgrades by a certified marine electrician regularly.
• Have Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) installed on your boat and test them once a month.

For more information about Delmarva Power, visit www.delmarva.com. Follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/delmarvapower and Twitter at www.twitter.com/delmarvaconnect. Our mobile app is available at www.delmarva.com/mobileapp.