Editing Tesla Coil (section)

== Safety Precautions ==

The Tesla Coil is safe if used correctly, but can be EXTREMELY dangerous if misused! Only a trained volunteer can be near or use the Tesla Coil. Extreme caution should be exercised while the device is turned on. Both the coil itself and the circuit box may carry harmful levels of voltage, so ground the Tesla Coil after every use. Follow the guidelines below in order to safely use the Tesla Coil:
* Use a power strip with an on/off switch. This will provide you with a safe way to turn the coil on and off.
* The Tesla Coil should not be turned on until all the cords are in place, the lid is on the circuit box, the grounding rod is plugged in and held near the tip, and the audience is at least six feet away.
* No one should touch or handle any part of the system, excluding the grounding rod and the screwdriver, while the power is on. Upon turning off the Tesla Coil, the grounding rod must be swept along opposite sides of the coils to remove any excess charge, as well as the tip.
* Do not perform this demonstration until you remove all metal objects and electronic devices from your person, such as necklaces, rings, bracelets, phones, keys and wallets. 
* You must warn the audience that anyone with a pacemaker or metal implant should move away from the stage, and should be at least 15 feet away from this demonstration to prevent any risk of damage to their device.
* Please see the [[Demonstration Safety]] Page for additional General Safety Precautions, and read the Loud Demonstration Safety section.