ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE OFFERS SCHOOL BUS SAFETY TIPS FOR BACK TO SCHOOL

Electrical dangers are everywhere, even on the school bus or at the bus stop. And Jackson Energy wants to remind students and parents that even something that seems like a minor risk in the moment could end up being deadly.

“Children are very impressionable from a young age, so it’s our duty as parents, grandparents or guardians to inform them of the dangers around them,” says Carol Wright, president and CEO of Jackson Energy. “Those dangers could even be at the bus stop or on their way to school. Inform your children to not play near or around power lines or poles while waiting for the bus. They could climb up a nearby tree or electrical pole, and accidentally grab a power line. This could be a fatal mistake so make sure your children know the dangers.

Tell your children to stay away from pad-mount transformers (those big green boxes on the ground) and other electrical equipment. Children might view these green boxes as playground equipment, perfect for climbing and playing on. So, warn your kids to not put their fingers, sticks or other objects through cracks in a transformer, and explain to them why they should never touch or go near areas where they see hazard stickers.

With your children, plan the different scenarios they could find themselves in. If their school bus was ever in an accident involving power lines, they should assume that the lines are still energized. They should remain in the bus as their bus driver calls 911. If your children must exit the vehicle, advise them to always listen for instructions from first responders or the bus driver.

In an emergency, the kids on the bus may need to jump out of the vehicle, with both feet together, avoiding contact with the bus and the ground at the same time. Then, they should shuffle away with small steps, being sure to keep both feet together and on the ground at all times until at least 40 feet away. This will reduce the risk for electrical shock or electrocution.

For other questions or concerns about electrical safety, contact Jackson Energy at 800-262-7480 or visit jacksonenergy.com for more information.