PINEVILLE, La. – Spring officially arrives tomorrow. Cleco reminds customers and the public to be mindful of overhead and buried power lines when beginning outdoor projects, such as cleaning gutters and planting trees.

“Taking the time to locate the power lines above you and buried underground is the most important step you can take before beginning outdoor spring cleaning,” said John Melancon, Cleco general manager of corporate safety. “Additionally important is to be aware of potentially hazardous electrical situations, including electrical work around pools. Remember, water and electricity do not mix.”

Cleco offers the following safety tips:

• Call 811 at least 48 hours before you dig to preserve underground infrastructure.

• Keep power cords and electrical equipment away from wet areas.

• Ladders that come into contact with a power line can be fatal. Keep all ladders at least 10 feet away from power lines.

• Stay away from downed power lines and any object they are touching.

• Power lines may be hidden by foliage. Contact Cleco at 1-800-622-6537 if you have concerns about tree limbs growing into overhead power lines on your property.

“Another important topic each spring is the increasing number of children playing outdoors,” said Melancon. “Keep an eye on children. Make sure they know not to climb trees near power lines. If they like to fly kites, be sure they fly them in open areas and away from power lines. Electricity can travel down the string of the kite and cause injury.”

For more safety tips and updates, follow Cleco on Facebook at @ClecoPower.