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We all count on electricity to power our modern lives, but staying safe starts with knowing the potential risks and how to avoid them. These guidelines below will help keep you and your family safe around electricity. 
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Shuffle – don't run – from a fallen power line. Dial 911 to report an emergency. Report a downed line to MidAmerican by calling 800‑799‑4443.

Electric safety essentials

Stay at least 20 feet away from power lines, substations and other electric facilities. Always assume power lines, wires on the ground and other electric utility equipment are energized.
Keep electrical equipment away from water and moisture. Don’t operate any electrical appliances with wet hands.
Avoid overloading electrical outlets. Plugging too many cords into one outlet can cause a fire hazard.
Seek professional assistance when needed. Under most circumstances, resetting a circuit breaker or GFCI outlet is all it takes to fix an electrical issue. But, if that doesn’t solve the problem, have a licensed electrician investigate further and make any necessary repairs.
Person adjusting circuit breakers in their home electrical panel
Electrical panel safety tips
Knowing how to use your electrical panel safely can help you if you have a power issue or an emergency.