Osceola County Schools reopened this month, which means an estimated 70,000 young adults have returned to the classroom to begin the 2023-2024 school year.
As families settle into their busy school routines and after-school routines at home, there are a few fundamental electrical safety and energy conservation tips to keep in mind.
- As children walk or bike to school, they should always stay away from downed power lines and utility equipment like poles or green box transformers.
- Be aware of possible electrical hazards in your home, such as frayed wires on extension cords or electrical wires that may become submerged in liquids. Never insert anything other than an electrical plug into an electrical outlet.
- Young children often go from room to room before finally getting settled after school; turn off ceiling fans when you’re not in the room.
- As school uniforms and other laundry start to pile up, opt for washing clothes with cold water.
- After school is prime time if you have gamers in the house. Be sure to turn off video game consoles when they’re not being used.
- Plan meals at the start of the week by cooking larger meals in the oven and reheating smaller portions throughout the week.
- As children and teenagers begin their homework routines, take note of their workspaces. Don’t ever place electrical wires like laptop power cords or extension cords near any water.
- Don’t attempt to use the microwave if there is anything metallic, such as silverware, inside.
- If you use an electric blanket, don’t bring liquids into bed when the blanket is on.
- As teens rush to recharge their cell phones after school, throw away cell phone chargers with frayed or exposed wires.