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QUINCY IL -- We're officially into the dog days of summer. And for many of you, that means you'll be heading to the pool. But there are some things you should lookout for so that day at the pool doesn't turn into the shock of your life.

Before you make a big splash at the pool this summer, take a few seconds to be on the lookout for electrical hazards. That's because we all know water and electricity can make for a deadly combination.

"Keep your electric things away from the pool. Usually pools themselves are grounded, but I wouldn't put any stereo systems or anything like that real close where it could be knocked into the pool--that's for sure," Jeff Morris, owner of Why Not Bedrooms, Sunrooms, Pools and Spas said.

Any appliances you have at the poolside should be battery operated only. And all electrical outlets within 20 feet of a pool or other water area should have what's called a GCFI, or ground fault circuit interrupter. That device will kick off the power automatically if there's any kind of problem. And remember...

If thunderstorms, especially lighting is approaching, it's definitely time to get out of the pool.

And if you're thinking of buying any kind of a pool or spa for your home, even an inflatable one, it should be at least five feet from all underground electrical wiring, and 25 feet from overhead electrical lines.

"You should definitely consider that when you put in a pool. Try to keep the pool away from any wires that might fall down. That would be a very bad thing," Morris said.

Morris also says that if any digging is involved, you need to check with your local electrical inspector...And for spas or pool pumps, have a licensed electrician check out your home to make sure that there's enough power for it to operate safely.

Remember that an adult should always supervise young children in the pool..And no one should swim alone.  If a swimmer somehow does manage to get electrocuted, do not dive in yourself to save them.  That's because you could end up getting electrocuted too.  Turn off any nearby power and use a plastic or fiberglass object to pull the victim out of the water.

For more tips, you can log onto www.safeelectricity.org.