Stay safe in the water
Electrical safety tips for water activities
For so many of us, water activities equal fun. But it is important to be aware of electrical hazards while enjoying the water. Electricity and water are a dangerous combination. Know how to keep you and your family safe around pools, hot tubs and other water activities.
Tips for swimmers:
- Electric devices and cords should be kept at least ten feet away from the pool or hot tub.
- When you can, use battery-powered appliances and electronics around the pool or hot tub instead of cord-connected appliances and equipment, such as televisions, radios and stereos.
- Never touch an electric device when you are wet or standing in water.
- Look out for underwater lights that are not working properly, flicker or work intermittently.
- If you are in the water and feel a tingling in your body, immediately stop swimming in your current direction. Try to swim in a direction where you did not feel the tingling. Exit the water as quickly as possible and do not touch metal ladders or rails. Touching metal may increase the risk of shock. Yell to the adults around you to turn off the power to the pool or hot tub.
- Never swim when lightning is nearby. If you hear thunder, get out of the water and go inside right away. Stay out of the water until at least 30 minutes after you last heard thunder. Remember this tip: when thunder roars, go indoors!