You may have noticed vaults, switches, transformers and junction boxes – sometimes called green utilities boxes – in your neighborhood or your own front yard. These boxes house high voltage utility equipment and connect our homes to electricity.

Cared for properly, utilities boxes are completely safe. The danger occurs if boxes are tampered with or blocked by landscaping. It's important that boxes are free of materials and objects that prevent ventilation. They need air to keep them cool and working properly, otherwise they can become a fire hazard. 

Allow eight feet of space in front of the green boxes, and two feet of space on each side for landscaping. 

Our detailed landscaping standards will help you. To keep your loved ones and your home safe, avoid using the following to cover the boxes:

• Storage sheds
• Fences 
• Trees. bushes and shrubs
• Firewood
• Rocks

Also, beware of open boxes in your area. Although they are locked, over time they can become exposed due to normal wear and tear, vehicle accidents and vandalism. If you notice a green box open or exposed, do not approach it. Open boxes may be energized and could cause injury or death. Call us at 448-4800 and crews will respond.

Encourage your children to stay away from boxes. Due to the energy the boxes produce, they can be hot to the touch, and some  may have sharp edges, and exposed bolts or screws.