Eliminate electrical hazards on the water

With 45 major lakes and more navigable miles of waterways than any other state except Alaska, Kentucky is a boater’s paradise. If you moor your boat at a private dock, take steps to prevent electrical hazards.

“Outdated wiring and a lack of routine maintenance on docks can cause situations where electricity ‘leaks’ into the water,” says Drew Akridge, Safety and Training coordinator at Salt River. “If someone swims into that energized water, the result can be electric shock drowning.”

In Kentucky, a “boat dock” is legally defined as “a structure that protrudes into a body of water for the purpose of mooring a boat or for other water-related recreation and that is connected to an electrical power source in any manner.” Adhere to these steps for accident prevention at private docks:

• Install ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) breakers oncircuits feeding electricity to the dock. Test GFCIs monthly.
• Use bonding jumpers to connect all metal parts of the dock to a ground rod on the shore. When a dock is prop-early grounded, any electrical charge occurring on it will trigger the GFCI to shut off power.
• All electrical installations should be performed by a licensed electrician familiar with marine codes and standards and inspected at least once a year.
• Neighboring docks can also present a shock hazard. Make your neighbors aware of the need for safety inspections and maintenance.

Take these simple steps to bring your boat dock up to safety standards to make your boating adventures as safe as they are fun!