• Plan the roofline of any new extension carefully. If you're adding a new room or a screened-in porch, make sure it won't interfere with existing power lines. Any power line that will come near the completed addition may have to be moved before you begin. Call us before you build.



• Avoid putting in a tool shed or playground equipment, such as a swing set, under power lines. If a line falls, someone could be injured or killed.



• Swimming pools should never be installed under electrical lines, for the same reason. Build pools at least 25 feet away from any power lines in all directions and maintain at least 17 feet between overhead lines and decks, slides or diving boards.



• Take underground lines into consideration, too. Pools and decks should be installed at least five feet away from any underground lines. Call us for more information about their location.



• If you're landscaping your yard, don't plant vines or plants to grow up or near utility poles or guy wires. Never try to cut or remove a tree that is or could become entangled with power lines. Keep bushy shrubs away from your electric meter.



• Be careful when using metal extension ladders, because they're natural conductors of electricity. Wooden or fiberglass ladders are a better choice. Also, don't throw anything such as ropes or string into power lines.



• Use only grounded three-pronged extension cords for outdoor work. Before you begin, check the extension cords for damage and replace if they're defective. Consider Ground Fault Interrupters for any outdoor circuits to protect against electrical shock.

If a new extension violates any building guidelines, the problem will have to be corrected at the homeowner's expense, or electricity will be shut off to the home. That's why it's smart to call us first, before you build.