Skip to main content

Electric safety tips

  • Know where your home's circuit panel is and how to turn off your breakers and main switch.
  • Never use an oven to heat your home.
  • If you’re using a generator, follow the manufacturer's instructions. See safety tips about portable generators.
  • Check for overhead powerlines when working outdoors around your house. Remember to keep tall ladders, roofing materials and pruning equipment clear of overhead power lines to avoid a hazardous situation.
  • Stay clear of downed power lines.
  • Never climb transmission towers, power poles or substation fences. If a pet is stuck after climbing a power pole, call PSE at 1-888-225-5773 or call 911.
  • Do not sit on the cabinets housing electrical equipment.
  • When getting ready to dig, make sure to call 811 — the free "Call Before You Dig" hotline — to avoid potential hazards with striking or digging around underground utilities.
  • Plant new trees away from overhead power lines.
  • Never climb trees near power lines – even if the power lines are not touching the trees.
  • Avoid flying kites, metallic balloons, drones and radio-controlled toys near power lines. If a kite or Mylar balloon drifts near a power line, let it go. Never try to retrieve anything caught in a power line or from a tree located near a power line.
  • Do not build playhouses or platforms in trees with nearby power lines.
  • Contact PSE if you suspect your meter appears to show signs of Tampering or Diversion.
  • Never install hot tubs, swimming or wading pools underneath or near power lines.

Training and public education

We regularly train employees, contractors and emergency first responders so they are prepared to respond in the event of an electrical emergency. We also educate customers and the general public about the importance of safety around high voltage electricity. For more information or to request training, please contact publicsafety@pse.com.