President and Chief Executive Officer
In May, electric cooperatives across the country promote safety awareness to coincide with National Electric Safety Month. Every year, thousands of accidents occur due to shock hazards, and YEC, your cooperative, is committed to educating the public about potential electrical dangers in and around their homes.
In 2016, 475,000 structure fires (including residential fires) were reported in the U.S., causing 2,950 deaths, 12,775 injuries and $7.9 billion in property damage. According to the National Fire Protection Association, a residential fire was reported every 90 seconds. Many home fires occur when electrical equipment is outdated or improperly used.
Your energy source
It is crucial that you understand your home’s electrical system and the safety concerns associated with the latest residential technologies before bringing them into your home. With newer technologies, such as solar panels, electric vehicles and more electrical gadgets in the home, people need to ensure they have an electrical system that’s compatible with the increased load. Utilize your source of energy and information by contacting YEC at (803) 684-4248 or visit our website. Your cooperative is always here for you!
Making accidents disappear
YEC puts a lot of energy into educating the public about electricity. Recently over 500 students at three local elementary schools had an interesting lesson on electrical safety. Using magic tricks and comedy to hold the students’ attention, magician Chris Dixon presented his Making Accidents Disappear program. The program teaches students to be aware of their surroundings, especially when electric wires and appliances are nearby.
“There is no performing art that is more universally loved among children than magic. I was excited that York Electric decided to sponsor this program again this year. Teaching electrical safety in a way that is memorable and fun for the students is a real passion of mine,” Dixon noted.
At YEC, we are committed to doing everything in our power to prevent accidents and promote safety. We are always looking out for you! That’s why we regularly offer safety demonstrations to students and other groups throughout our service area.
Through electrical safety awareness and education, we can all play a part in preventing electrical hazards and injuries in the future. Together let’s plug into safety this May.
Paul Basha
President and Chief Executive Officer