The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has published information on the potential electrical hazards that exist in water.

Many people are unaware of electrical dangers in water environments, such as electric shock drowning, that injure or kill people every year. These dangers can be found in swimming pools and hot tubs; onboard boats; on docks and piers; and in water surrounding boats, marinas, and launch ramps. NFPA has published a list of tips for swimmers, and boat and pool owners, to help protect against these risks, including:

• Never swim near a marina, dock, or boat yard.
• While in a pool or hot tub, look out of underwater lights that are not working properly or flickering.
• If you feel a tingling sensation while swimming, immediately swim in another direction and exit the water as quickly as possible, while avoiding use of metal ladders or rails.
• Avoid entering the water when launching or loading a boat.
• Never modify the electrical system on a boat or shore power to make something work.
• When putting in a new pool or hot tub, have wiring performed by an electrician experienced in the special safety requirements for these types of installations, and have completed work inspected by the authority having jurisdiction.

Read many more tips on NFPA’s website.