Ameren Illinois wants its customers to understand safety precautions that should be taken to stray away from power lines connected to their weather head and meter.

According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), More than 100 people die, and thousands are injured from ladder-related incidents.

To acquire this information in the best way possible, Hart Media Group interviewed Ameren Illinois’ Consulting Safety Supervisor, Jeff Lott, who gave tips and tricks to stay safe while using a ladder in your home or workplace.

Step one, according to Lott, is to visually check the surrounding area for power lines prior to setting up a ladder for any outdoor work, and avoid making any physical contact with the found power lines.

The next step in ensuring safety while using a ladder is knowing how far away you should keep from those power lines that supply electricity to your home. In this regard, Lott says that you should keep all ladders and tools at least 10 feet away from any power line.

As far as what type of ladder should be used, Lott says that a fiberglass ladder is best, but does not guarantee safety. Lott also stated not to trust a wooden ladder to protect you either, as wooden ladders can still conduct electricity.

Lott also explained guy wires, what they do and are used for, as well as safety tips for scaffolding, and whether the same rules also apply to scissor lifts.

Find more safety tips and tricks online at www.ameren.com