Pad-Mounted Transformer Safety

Pad-mounted transformers are green metal boxes that contain the above ground portion of an underground portion
of an underground electrical installation. Your home gets electricity in one of two ways: overhead or underground. If
the distribution lines are underground, service pedestals and equipment may be housed in these outdoor boxes,
cabinets, or larger enclosures called pad-mount transformers. The transformer's purpose is to reduce the voltage of
incoming electricity at a lower voltage for your house. Never play around padmounts because they carry high
voltages and are safe when locked, but they can be deadly if someone reaches inside. If you see one open call
TCEC immediately.

Power Line Hazards And Cars

If a power line falls on a car, you should stay inside the vehicle. This is the safest place to stay. Warn people
not to touch the car or the line. Call or ask someone to call the local cooperative and emergency services.

The only circumstance in which you should consider leaving a car that is in contact with a downed power line is if
the vehicle catches on fire. Open the door. Do not step out of the car. You may receive a shock. Instead, jump free
of the car so that your body clears the vehicle before touching the ground. Once you clear the car, shuffle at least
50 feet away, with both feet on the ground.

As in all power line related emergencies, call for help immediately by dialing 911 or call your electric utility company's
Service Center/Dispatch Office.

Do not try to help someone else from the car while you are standing on the ground.

Electrical Safety And Generators

Preventing Electrocutions Associated with Portable Generators Plugged Into Household Circuits

When power lines are down, residents can restore energy to their homes or other structures by using another power
source such as a portable generator. If water has been present anywhere near electrical circuits and electrical equipment,
turn off the power at the main breaker or fuse on the service panel. Do not turn the power back on until electrical
equipment has been inspected by a qualified electrician.

If it is necessary to use a portable generator, manufacturer recommendations and specifications must
be strictly followed. If there are any questions regarding the operation or installation of the portable generator,
a qualified electrician should be immediately contacted to assist in installation and start-up activities. The generator
should always be positioned outside the structure.

When using gasoline- and diesel-powered portable generators to supply power to a building, switch the main
breaker or fuse on the service panel to the "off" position prior to starting the generator. This will prevent power lines
from being inadvertently energized by backfeed electrical energy from the generators, and help protect utility line workers or
other repair workers or people in neighboring buildings from possible electrocution. If the generator is plugged into a household
circuit without turning the main breaker to the “off” position or removing the main fuse, the electrical current could reverse, go
back through the circuit to the outside power grid, and energize power lines or electrical systems in other buildings to at or near
their original voltage without the knowledge of utility or other workers.

Effects Of Backfeed

The problem of backfeed in electrical energy is a potential risk for electrical energy workers. Electrocutions
are the fifth leading cause of all reported occupational deaths. Following the safety guidelines below can reduce this risk.

Other Generator Hazards

Generator use is also a major cause of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. Generators should only be used
in well ventilated areas.