Electric Meter Safety – A Little Space Keeps Everyone Safe
March 18, 2026 | Safety
Your electric meter quietly does its job every day, but it also comes with important safety considerations. A little space and the right precautions help protect you, your neighbors, first responders, and UPPCO crews. Below, we’ll cover how to safely maintain access to your meter, why tampering is dangerous, and how to recognize when a meter issue needs professional attention.
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Meters Are for Authorized Utility Personnel Only Electric meters are not homeowner-serviceable equipment. Only trained and authorized UPPCO personnel should work on or handle a meter. Meters carry serious electrical hazards, including the risk of shock or electrocution, arc flash, and fire. Damage caused by tampering or improper contact can put people and property in danger. |
| Keep the Area Around Your Meter Clear Meters must remain accessible and uncovered year-round. A clear working space allows UPPCO crews to safely read, inspect, maintain, or respond to issues quickly — especially during outages or emergencies. If pets are present on your property, they should be secured when UPPCO staff need access to the meter to ensure everyone’s safety. |
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Meter Tampering Is Dangerous and Illegal
Tampering with your electric meter is both unsafe and against the law. Any attempt to alter, remove, or interfere with a meter can result in serious injury, fire, equipment damage, and service interruptions — not just for your home, but potentially for others nearby.
A $350 unauthorized use fee can also be incurred for instances where unlawful tampering is observed.
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Customer Responsibilities: Snow and Ice Safety Winter conditions can create hidden hazards around meters. Customers are responsible for maintaining safe access by keeping meters clear of snow and ice. This includes removing snowbanks that block access, preventing ice from falling onto meters, and avoiding the use of heat sources or tools to clear ice.Never chip, strike, or pry ice off a meter. If ice buildup or snow removal causes visible damage — or if damage appears on its own — do not touch the meter. Call UPPCO right away so trained personnel can respond safely. |
If You See a Damaged or Dangerous Meter
A sparking, burning, or severely damaged meter is a serious safety issue. Call 911 immediately if there is fire, active sparking, or an immediate threat to life or property.
Contact UPPCO by calling 906-449-2013 if you notice broken or discolored meter glass, a loose or unsecured meter cover, or a meter that appears partially out of its socket. Keeping meters accessible ensures UPPCO personnel and firefighters can act quickly and safely when every second counts.
UPPCO is the Upper Peninsula’s largest electric utility serving approximately 52,000 customers across 4,460 square miles. UPPCO and its predecessors have excelled at providing dependable service and safe, reliable energy to its valued customers for more than 135 years.
