Report Outages: 256-552-1400 More ways to report HERE Home About DU Residential Commercial Resource Center News SAFETY Electrical Safety INSIDE Don't overload outlets or extension cords. Don't yank cords from the wall. Make sure all electrical cords are kept neat and tidy. Look for frayed spots on electrical cords. Have them repaired professionally. Don't stick ANYTHING in an electrical outlet. If small children are present, put plastic plug guards in each outlet. Make sure bathrooms, kitchens and garages have GFI plugs installed per code. OUTSIDE Always be aware of surrounding power lines. Take extreme caution when working with long poles, extension ladders or any other metal object that could potentially come in contact with power lines. Always assume a power line is LIVE or ENERGIZED - even if it is on the ground! Don't touch it or try to move it. Never drive your vehicle across a power line on the roadway. If you are in an accident and a power line is touching your vehicle - STAY PUT! If you must get out: Jump out and land with both feet together. Make sure you don't touch the car and ground at same time. Hop or shuffle to a safe location at least 50 feet away Do NOT take steps! Demo video Installing a generator at your home or business? Notify Decatur Utilities (DU) at 256-552-1400 Opt 4 so we have it noted in our records. It must be installed by a certified electrician. More electrical safety resources: ESFI Kids Corner - Safety info for elementary students. Safety in a Flash - Download DU's elementary student safety handout. Additional Electrical Safety Tips for all ages Natural Gas Safety INSIDE Natural gas leaks can be identified inside by: Smell: Distinct "rotten egg" odor Sound: A loud hissing or roaring noise If you suspect you have a natural gas leak: Evacuate the building immediately. Do NOT use cell phones, lighters, light switches or anything else that can "spark". Get to a safe place and call DU at 256-552-1400 Opt 2 to report. Call 911 if there is a fire or explosion. Warn others to stay clear of the area. OUTSIDE Natural gas leaks can be identified outside by: Smell - Distinct "rotten egg" odor Sound - A loud hissing or roaring noise Sight - Dirt being disturbed, dying vegetation or bubbles in standing water Is you suspect you have a natural gas leak: Evacuate from the immediate area. Do NOT use cell phones, lighters or anything else that can "spark". Get to a safe place and call DU at 256-552-1400 Opt. 2 to report. Call 911 if there is a fire or explosion. Warn others to stay clear of the area. More natural gas safety resources AGA Kids Natural Gas Safety 1002 Central Parkway SW PO Box 2232 (35609) Decatur, AL 35601 © 2019 Decatur Utilities Employee Page Donate Now!