Eliminating electrical hazards around swimming pools and outdoor hot tubs helps ensure everyone stays safe while enjoying their time in the water this summer.

Here are some pool and spa safety tips provided by the Electrical Safety Foundation, a leading authority on electrical safety issues for consumers, workers and the media.

• Keep all outdoor receptacles covered so they remain dry.
• Use a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) for electrical devices used outside to help prevent electrocutions and electric shock injuries.
• Make sure all electrical equipment used for swimming pools (even the cleaning equipment) is grounded.
• Keep electrical devices and cords at least 10 feet away from water sources.
• Never handle electrical devices when you are wet.
• Make sure there are no power lines over a swimming pool.
• Do not swim during thunderstorms.
• Have a licensed electrician inspect your pool to make sure electrical components are up to code and safe.