Detroit Edison Offers Kite Flying Safety Tips

DETROIT, April 19  /PRNewswire/ -- Spring is finally here and the sky soon will be dotted with brightly colored kites and radio-controlled model airplanes.  While enjoying the outdoors, Detroit Edison reminds kite and model airplane flyers to play it safe around electricity by following these simple rules:

* Select a level and open space away from utility poles and overhead power lines.

* If a kite or other objects become lodged on a utility pole or tangled in the wires, don't try to remove them.  Call the utility at [phone] to report the location.

* Don't fly kites in threatening weather.  If a kite is hit by lightning, wet string can conduct electricity.

* Use strong, dry cord for kite string.

* Don't use kites containing metal or wire parts such as cotton-wrapped wire string. Wire and metal will serve as conductors if they come in contact with electrical equipment. Use lightweight wood for kite frames.

Other common-sense rules to remember:

* Avoid traffic areas such as streets, highways and railroad rights-of- way.

  * Stay clear of other kites and kite flyers.

  * Keep an eye out for rocks and holes when running with a kite.



* Don't fly kites and toy airplanes from rooftops or other elevated structures.

For additional information on safety, visit DTE Energy's web site for children, http://www.dtekids.com/. 

DATASOURCE: Detroit Edison



CONTACT: Eileen Dixon, [phone]; or Lorie Kessler,

[phone], both of Detroit Edison



Web site:  http://www.dteenergy.com/

http://www.dtekids.com/

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