Got an electrical wiring problem? Ask the Master before you start digging into your electrical wiring. 120 Volts has killed more people than all the other voltages combined.

The reason is that as the voltage values go up the personnel who works on that equipment has more training. Also there is safety in numbers. Have you ever seen a line crew with less than five guys standing around the bucket truck? People make jokes like, "How many electricians does it take to change a light bulb?" when in realilty electricians should always work in pairs. Why?

It only takes 500 miliamps to stop your heart from beating. That's only 1/2 amp about as much power as a 60 watt light bulb draws.

The first rule of thumb when working on electrical wiring is to turn off the Main Circuit Breaker. You do own a flashlight don't you? If you turn off the Main there is no way you can accidently kill yourself.

The absolute best way to prevent accidental electrocution is to hire a licensed electrician. You might save big bucks by getting Joe Blow the Handy Man to fix your wiring but what if he kills himself while he's inside your electrical panel? How much does your home owner's insurance pay for accidental death? Never thought about that before did you?

Another cause of home electrocution is digging in the yard to plant flowers, trees, or a fountain or fish pond. Always call Digger's Hotline before you dig. Do a Google search on Digger's Hotiline. It's a Free service. You may have to wait two or three days for someone to come out and locate the ungderground wiring in your yard, but that's worth it to be safe from accidental electrocution.

Christmas lights. Another source of accidental electrocution. Metal ladder, wet ground, snow, overhead power cables entering your house just under the eaves of your house. Hands hold the ladder, ladder touches the 240 Volt service entrance cable, Daddy's 3 days from going into the ground for good.

To Summarize: To Prevent Accidental Electrocution. ( In order of descending priority )

Hire a Licensed Electrician

Call Digger's Hotline (If digging outside)

Turn off Main Circuit Breaker before you expose wiring

Use a fiberglass ladder and avoid overhead wires

I am a Viet Nam era veteran of the United States Air Force where I worked as an aircraft electrician on B-52 bombers, KC-135 tankers, and a variety of other specialized aircraft including SAC Command Center, Huey Helicoptors, and even an old C-47.

I hold a 2nd Class Commercial FCC license and have a Degree in Industrial Electronics Technology, and I'm also a federally licensed Mining Electrician.

I have worked for over 30 years in the electrical and electronic fields covering residential, commercial, and industrial construction and maintenance.