Stay safe when working on home DIY projects

Being aware of electrical safety can help you be better prepared for do-it-yourself home projects. 

You have a good reason for wanting to take on a do-it-yourself home project. You may have acquired the skills to do the work on your own, want to save money or enjoy the challenge.

When working on these projects, keeping safety in mind is essential. You can quickly put yourself in a dangerous situation if you don’t take proper safety precautions and understand what you’re doing before you start.

“Many homeowners lack the real knowledge or experience to take on some projects around the house safely,” said Steve Hite, Energy Services Supervisor for Hendricks Power Cooperative. “If it feels like a project is beyond your skill or comfort level, leave it to a professional.”

When it comes to tackling any electrical project at home, here are some safety reminders to keep in mind:

• Learn about your electrical system so it’s easier to navigate and maintain it safely.
• Avoid projects beyond your skill level—call a professional to prevent tragedies.
• Turn off the circuit breaker in the main panel before working on a circuit.
• Unplug any lamp or appliance before you start working on it.
• Test the wires before you touch them to ensure the power is turned off.
• Avoid touching plumbing or gas pipes when doing your electrical project.