Star Journal Staff

Wisconsin Public Service (WPS) is alerting parents to a new internet dare called the “outlet challenge,” which dares children to drop a coin between an electrical outlet and an electrical plug. According to WPS release, attempting this stunt could damage a building’s electrical system, start a fire or cause serious injury.

Parents are encouraged to remind children of the following electrical safety precautions:

• Never put anything but an electrical plug into a wall socket.

• Don’t overload the socket — one socket, one plug.

• Never pull a plug out by the cord.

• Make sure there are no holes or breaks in extension cords.

• Never put extension cords under carpets or rugs.

• Put plastic covers on unused outlets to protect small children.

• Dry your hands before using any electrical appliance, switch or plug.

• Keep small appliances away from bathtubs or showers.

• Never use your oven or stove to heat your home.

• Install at least one smoke detector on each floor of your home, and in the garage.

• Keep an all-purpose fire extinguisher on each floor of your home.

• Follow a space heater’s instructions carefully.

• Devise a fire escape plan and make sure everyone knows it.

• Stay away from meters, electrical boxes and utility poles.