Snow and salt melting into cavities with electric cables can lead to dangerous conditions of stray voltage that poses a threat to humans and animals. Winter incidents occur when melted snow mixed with salt-based de-icers form a saline solution and conduction path from defective or tampered cables and equipment, usually several days after the snowfall. As we have seen in the past, this can end in tragedy.

When walking your dog please be very careful around manhole covers, scaffolding, street lighting and cellar doors or any other metal obstructions. The smell of smoke without a visible fire may be a clear sign that stray voltage is present. Dog booties, while helpful protecting against salt, may also provide another barrier against stray voltage although by no mean should be considered 100% protection from stray voltage.

If you discover a stray voltage condition, or if you have any questions, please call 1-800-75-CONED (1-800-752-6633).

Please continue to be safe and keep your pets safe.