The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has released a reminder to everyone to be aware of potential electrical hazards that exist in waters near marinas and launch ramps, around docks and piers and in swimming pools and hot tubs, ahead of summer and the 4th of July.
According to the NFPA, while the public remains largely unaware of electrical dangers posed in water environments such as electric shock drowning (ESD), each year people are injured or killed from these hazards.
The primary cause of ESD is faulty electrical wiring or equipment on boats or piers that cause electrical current to leak into surrounding water.
This energized water can then pass through a swimmer’s body causing a level of paralysis that ultimately causes serious injury or drowing.
Lorraine Carli, NFPA Vice President of Outreach & Advocacy commented: “During the warm weather months, NFPA is committed to educating the public to help prevent injuries and fatalities in swimming and boating areas.
“Never swim near a marina, dock, or boatyard. And always have a qualified professional inspect your boat before engaging in any water activities to ensure that all safety measures and protection systems are functioning properly.”
In light of the summer months, the NFPA has shared how this time of year is the ideal seasons to have swimming pool equipment, hot tubs and spas inspected and properly maintained.
This ensures vital life-saving safety components, such as ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protection and all grounding and bonding systems, are functioning properly. A qualified electrician can periodically inspect and if necessary, replace or upgrade the electrical devices or equipment that ensure the electrical safety of a pool, spa, or hot tub.
Carli added: “When installing a new pool or hot tub, have an experienced electrician handle the wiring, as they are familiar with the specific safety requirements for these installations.
“Stay vigilant for any signs of problems, such as underwater lights that are not functioning properly, flickering, or working intermittently.
“By taking simple safety precautions, we can help minimize the risk of ESD and its related dangers, ensuring that everyone can safely enjoy boating and swimming activities this season.”
The NFPA has shared some advice and information ahead of the 4th July and summer weather, regarding potential electrical hazards that might arise throughout this time of year.
