Safety Tips
Electricity naturally flows to the ground through anything that will conduct or carry current. The human body is a very good conductor of electricity!
Indoor Safety Tips
Keep appliances like hair dryers away from water-filled tubs and sinks.
Unplug appliances before you clean them.
Use appliances and equipment approved by Underwriters Laboratories (look for the UL listing on the label) or other recognized testing laboratories.
Don’t overload outlets.
Never unplug or carry anything by its cord.
Don’t run cords under carpets or furniture; the cords can overheat and cause a fire.
Make it a habit to unplug small appliances when not in use.
Teach kids not to poke things into electrical outlets, toasters, or any other appliances, whether they’re on or off.
Use plug covers or inserts in all outlets.
Do not force a plug into an outlet if it doesn’t fit.
Outdoor Safety Tips
Do not climb trees near power lines.
Do not trim branches near power lines.
Fly kites and model planes in open areas far from power lines.
Never touch, kick, pull or attempt to pick up a fallen wire.
Stay away from power substations; high voltage equipment can be very dangerous.
Don’t use ladders near utility poles and power lines.
Energy Conservation Tips
Wash only full loads of dishes and clothes.
Lower the thermostat on your water heater to 120 degrees.
Plug home electronics into power strips; turn power strips off when equipment is not in use.
Turn off lights when leaving a room.
Check the exterior of your home for potential air leaks. If you find gaps near water spigots, dryer vents, or air conditioner hoses, fill with expanding foam to prevent air leaks.
Replace incandescent light bulbs with Energy Star compact fluorescent bulbs.
Clean air filters one time per month.
Draft-proof windows and doors with caulking or weather stripping.
For more home energy tips, visit TVA’s website.
Water Conservation Tips
Turn the faucet off when brushing your teeth.
Take short showers instead of baths.
Use low-flow shower heads.
Put several drops of food coloring in the tank behind your toilet bowl. If you see colored water seeping into the bowl, there’s a leak. Fixing it can save about 600 gallons each month.
Scrape and rinse plates before putting them in the dishwater.
Only run the dishwasher or clothes washer when full.
Water lawns in the coolest part of the day, so it doesn’t evaporate before soaking in the ground.
Check your irrigation system to make sure you aren’t watering the driveway or street.