Is Your Dock Safe?

Here in Florida we are surrounded by water, boats and docks, which brings us to ask the question of: How Safe are YOU?

If you own a boat and/or a dock, you can take steps now to help prevent a tragedy. There have been many unspeakable tragedies as a result of electrocutions. Some of these have occurred from improperly grounded docks. All were preventable.

If you are are buying an existing dock or having work done, all electrical installations/repairs should be performed by a professional electrical contractor familiar with marine codes and standards and inspected at least once a year.

Neighboring docks can also present a shock hazard, so please make sure your neighbors are aware of the need for safety inspections and maintenance and work together to make the waterfront safe.

Here are some safety rules you should always adhere to:

• NEVER swim within 100 yards of ANY dock using electrical power!

• NEVER swim off your dock without shutting down all shore power to the boat and the dock.

• If you normally run a power cord from your house or garage to charge your batteries, make sure the  outlet has a GFCI and include an ELCI somewhere in the shore power cord.

Know the signs of Electrical Shock Drowning (ESD).

Tingling, numbness or pain all indicate ESD. You MUST Fight the instinct to enter the water to rescue someone. Many rescuers have died trying to help ESD victims. You will need to FIRST TURN OFF shore power connections or disconnect shore power cords before helping.

We at Pingston Electric, LLC want everyone to be safe, while enjoying your time on or near the water.   Please don't hesitate, call us today at 321-773-4651 to schedule an inspection of your dock's electricity.