Entergy Arkansas has some helpful tips for staying safe this fall.
STAY SAFE OUTDOORS
The American Academy of Pediatrics offers suggestions to help children celebrate Halloween safely. Prepare to welcome trick-or-treaters to your home by checking outdoor lights and making sure walkways and steps are well-lit and free of any tripping hazards.
Extension cords should be specifically designated for outdoor use. Use rubber gaskets in light sockets or hang sockets downward to keep water out and remember to turn outside lights and decorations off when you are away from home or asleep.
KEEP SAFETY FIRST WITH HOME PROJECTS
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When cleaning up fallen leaves and branches or trimming trees, always use caution and be aware of overhead power lines.
Position ladders away from overhead wires so trimmings will not fall onto power lines.
If this happens, always assume downed wires are energized and call 1-800-ENTERGY for help.
If your fall spruce-up includes digging up flower beds, trees or shrubs, remember to call before you dig.
Calling 811 before you dig will keep you safe and prevent disruption of utility services to your neighborhood.
When performing maintenance activities that require a ladder inside or out, be sure to wear proper footwear, position the ladder on a flat surface and have someone nearby to spot you.
DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME ENDS NOV. 3
When daylight saving time ends Nov. 3, fewer hours of daylight will make it harder to see children going to and from the school bus in the mornings and evenings. When driving, avoid distractions and watch for children in the neighborhood.
When setting your clocks back an hour, check the batteries in your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. All homes should have a carbon monoxide detector to help identify the colorless and odorless gas that can cause serious illness or death.
STAY SAFE AND WARM INDOORS
It is never safe to leave candles burning unattended. A small sputter or an errant flame can cause a fire in an instant.
Space heaters should be used with caution. They are large consumers of energy and fire hazards and should be kept at least three feet away from draperies, rugs and furniture.
Homeowners who use a gas or electric furnace should schedule an appointment for service by a certified technician to make sure it is safe for operation and for greatest efficiency.
A wood-burning stove or fireplace should also be used with caution and proper preparation. Have your chimney cleaned by a professional before the first fire is lit.
Fallen leaves, animal nests and other debris can cause the smoke to vent into your home rather than outside and cause a fire.
Replace dirty air filters inside and remove debris from the unit outside to ensure that your HVAC unit works efficiently through all seasons.
BE READY FOR INCLEMENT WEATHER
Hurricane season lasts through the end of November, so it is important not to let your guard down even when the weather begins to cool. Prepare now for severe weather that may come your way by making a plan and a kit.