Be Smart. Stay Safe Outdoors.

Wisconsin Public Service reminds its customers to think about outdoor electrical safety. Here are some tips to help people enjoy a safe outdoor season:

* Before any underground digging, call 811 to find the location of underground gas and electric lines. Or, in Wisconsin call Diggers Hotline, 1-800-242-8511, to find the location of underground gas and electric lines before digging, or Michigan customers can call 1-800-482-7171 for locates.

* Remind children to fly kites or model airplanes away from electric lines. If one becomes entangled in electric lines, contact Public Service.

* Stay away from green electric transformer boxes for underground electrical service.

* Stay out of trees located near power lines.

* Don’t play ball, toss frisbees, or play games in which objects can be thrown or batted into electric substations. NEVER try to retrieve an object from a substation. Call Public Service instead.

* Keep ladders and scaffolds far away from power lines.

* Always check overhead lines before starting a project.

* Swimming pools should not be installed or placed beneath electric lines.

* Don’t use electrical tools in the rain or while standing on wet surfaces. Make certain hands are dry before using electrical tools and appliances.

* Make sure power tools are well maintained and their electrical cords are in good condition.

* Use grounded power tools (three-pronged plugs).

* Use common sense in your outdoor activities.