Ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCI)
GFCI outlets should be used by all water sources to prevent electric shock. Find out why.
Natural gas comes into homes and businesses through a network of underground pipelines that may be located on or near your property. These pipelines have exceptional safety records - however, like electrical lines, they can be dangerous and must be respected.
Since pipelines are buried underground, utility companies often use markers to show the approximate location – particularly in rural areas. Markers may be anywhere along the pipeline "right-of-way," which typically run along a public street, but may also be on or near private property.
The owner of the pipeline has the right to restrict certain activities in the right-of-way so they can access the area in an emergency or for maintenance.
The color, size and design may vary, but all markers must display the following:
However, not all lines are marked, so it is critical that you dial 811 or contact your state’s One Call Center before digging. Right-of-way locations are usually recorded with counties or local municipalities and filed on maps.
Do you have buried natural gas lines for a pool, workshop or other use on your property? You should know about a federal law covering the maintenance of customer-owned gas piping.
In most cases, gas companies maintain buried gas piping up to the outlet of the gas meter on your property. All gas piping beyond this point is the responsibility of the property owner.
Some examples of buried gas piping that are not maintained by utility companies are:
The federal law administered by the U.S. Department of Transportation (Title 49 CFR 192.16) states:
GFCI outlets should be used by all water sources to prevent electric shock. Find out why.
The best way to weather a storm is to have a safety plan in place ahead of time.
Find out how to test for radon in your home and what to do if you have it.
Using universal design principals, your home can adapt to your changing lifestyle needs.
Keep these safety guidelines in mind when using gas-consuming products such as stoves, clothes dryers, water heaters and furnaces.
Many homeowners are investing in home security systems to deter criminals, provide home protection and deliver peace of mind.
The wiring inside most older houses wasn’t designed to handle the electrical needs we have today.
Walking through a wet or flooded basement can be dangerous. To be safe, you should always assume that basement flood water is energized.
Taking a few minutes to check power tools before and after using will keep them in good working order and will keep you safe.