Allegheny Power Recognizes National Electric Safety Month

 UL Extension Cord May is National Electric Safety Month, and Allegheny Power would like to remind its customers that although electricity is a great convenience, it can also be dangerous and must be treated respectfully. Electrical accidents occur every year, and more often than not, they result in serious injury or even death. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, each year there are over 400 electrocutions in the United States. Approximately 180 of these are related to consumer products such as appliances, power tools, or other useful items around the house. Twenty percent of these are caused by faulty or exposed wiring, which leads us to another frightening statistic. Information gathered by the National Fire Protection Association indicates that there are over 30,000 home fires annually associated with electrical distribution systems (wiring), resulting in over 200 deaths, nearly 1,000 injuries and over $600 million in property damage. “Allegheny Power considers electrical safety a top priority,” said David E. Flitman, President, Allegheny Power. “We want to use Electrical Safety Month to help people understand that all accidents are preventable. The statistics are alarming, but everyone can take steps to make electrical safety a habit, and by doing so, prevent electrical injuries.” As a public service, Allegheny Power is providing the following information to give support to its customers and encourage a better understanding of electrical safety.