Oct 23, 2026 | Safety and Security
Halloween decorations can transform your home into a spooky spectacle, but before you plug in those lights, inflatables and animated decorations, it’s important to make safety part of your celebration.
A little preparation can help prevent electrical hazards and ensure everyone enjoys a safe and memorable Halloween.
Start with a quick decoration safety check
Before hanging decorations or plugging in lights, inspect all electrical cords and light strands for signs of damage. Frayed wires, cracked sockets or loose connections can create shock and fire hazards.
If you find damaged decorations, replace them instead of trying temporary fixes.
Avoid overloading outlets
It can be tempting to plug multiple decorations into a single outlet, especially when creating an elaborate display. However, overloaded outlets and power strips can overheat, increasing fire risk.
Follow manufacturer recommendations and distribute electrical loads across multiple outlets when possible.
Use the right decorations in the right places
Outdoor displays should always use decorations, extension cords and lighting specifically rated for outdoor use. Indoor products may not be designed to withstand rain, moisture or changing temperatures.
Check packaging labels to ensure decorations are intended for the environment where they’ll be used.
Keep walkways safe
Extension cords can create tripping hazards for trick-or-treaters and guests. Route cords away from sidewalks, driveways and pathways whenever possible. If cords must cross a walking area, secure them properly to reduce the risk of falls.
Look up before decorating
When placing outdoor decorations, ladders or large displays, always be aware of overhead power lines. Never hang decorations on utility equipment or place them where they could contact electrical lines.
Treat all power lines as energized and always maintain a safe distance.
Power down at the end of the night
Before heading to bed or leaving home, turn off and unplug Halloween decorations. This simple step can reduce electrical risks and conserve energy when you’re not using the decorations.
Keep the scares in the decorations
A few minutes spent checking lights, cords and displays can help prevent electrical hazards throughout the Halloween season. By following these simple tips, you can help keep your home festive, fun and safe for everyone who stops by for a treat.
Happy Halloween and stay safe!
Oct 6, 2026 | Safety and Security
Fire Prevention Week (October 4-10) is a great time to think about how we can keep our homes and families safe. According to the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI), home electrical fires are responsible for around 500 deaths, 1,400 injuries and $1.3 billion in property damage.
The good news is that many house fires can be prevented by following a few simple electrical safety tips. Electricity powers our everyday lives, but it should always be treated with care.
Here are some important reminders to help prevent electrical fires:
Check your power cords
Take a look at the cords around your home. If a cord is frayed, cracked, or damaged, replace it right away. Never put nails, staples, or other objects through electrical cords because they can damage the protective covering and create a fire hazard.
Don’t force plugs into outlets
Plugs should fit securely into outlets. If a plug feels loose or needs to be forced into place, stop using it and have the outlet inspected. Damaged outlets can increase the risk of electrical problems and fires.
Use the right light bulbs
Always use light bulbs with the recommended wattage for your lamp or fixture. Using bulbs that are too powerful can cause overheating and potentially start a fire.
Be careful with space heaters
When the weather gets cold, many people use space heaters. Keep them on a flat surface and away from furniture, curtains, blankets, and other flammable materials. Never plug a space heater into an extension cord or power strip, and don’t leave it running unattended.
Protect areas near water
Bathrooms, kitchens, and other places where water is present should have Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs). These safety devices can quickly shut off power if they detect a problem, helping to prevent shocks and electrical hazards.
A few simple safety habits can make a big difference. This Fire Prevention Week, take a few minutes to check your home’s electrical equipment and talk with your family about electrical safety. Working together can help keep everyone safe and reduce the risk of electrical fires.
May 28, 2026 | Safety and Security
With warmer weather on the way, many people are heading outside to tackle yard projects, enjoy time with family and make the most of the summer season. As outdoor activity ramps up, PPL Electric Utilities is reminding you to stay aware of potential electrical dangers around their homes.
Safety is more than a commitment at PPL Electric Utilities — it’s a core value that guides everything the company does. That includes helping you recognize risks and take simple steps to stay safe near power lines and electrical equipment.
As you prepare your yard or start outdoor projects, it’s important to look above and below:
- Overhead power lines can pose a serious hazard if ladders, tools or equipment come too close.
- Always keep yourself and anything you’re using at least 10 feet away from power lines and carry ladders parallel to the ground to avoid accidental contact.
Planning to dig? Whether you’re planting a tree, installing a fence or starting a landscaping project, always call 811 at least three business days in advance. This free service helps identify underground utility lines and can prevent serious injuries and costly damage.
You should also be cautious around electrical equipment in the yard:
- Keep areas clear around pad-mounted transformers, avoid contact with equipment and keep children and pets away.
- Don’t use electrical equipment or extension cords in rainy or wet conditions.
- Check all outdoor outlets and install waterproof covers.
Most importantly, if you ever see a downed power line, stay far away and assume it is energized. Keep people and pets at least 100 feet back and, if you see a downed wire, report it immediately to PPL Electric by calling 1-800-342-5775 and say “downed power line.”
As summer approaches, a few simple precautions can go a long way toward keeping outdoor activities safe. By staying alert and informed, you can enjoy everything the season has to offer — without the risk.
Apr 22, 2026 | Safety and Security
May is National Electrical Safety Month, a great time to learn how to stay safe around electricity at home. Electricity helps power our lights, appliances, phones, and more — but if it’s not used the right way, it can be dangerous.
According to the Electrical Safety Foundation International, electrical home structure fires cause the following every year:
- $1.3 billion in property damage
The good news? Many electrical accidents can be prevented with a few easy safety steps. Here’s a room-by-room guide to help you and your family stay safe at home.
CLICK THIS LINK FOR A DOWNLOADABLE AT-HOME SAFETY CHECKLIST: PPL Electric Utilities At Home Electrical Safety Checklist
Download this room-by-room checklist to help keep you and your home safe!
Living Room Safety
Living rooms often have lamps, TVs, game systems and phone chargers — all using electricity.
Safety tips:
- Check cords on lamps and electronics. Don’t use them if they are cracked or frayed.
- Make sure outlets and switches have faceplates and work properly.
- Never run cords under rugs or furniture, as they can overheat.
- Keep space heaters far away from curtains, furniture and other items that can catch fire.
- Don’t plug too many things into one outlet or power strip.
- If children live in or visit your home, use outlet safety covers.
Kitchen Safety
Water and electricity don’t mix, so kitchens need extra care.
Safety tips:
- Keep appliances like toasters and mixers away from the sink.
- Unplug small appliances when you’re not using them.
- Make sure refrigerator coils are clean and there’s space behind the fridge for airflow.
- Kitchens should have GFCI outlets (outlets with “test” and “reset” buttons). Test them once a month.
- Keep a Type C fire extinguisher nearby in case of an electrical fire.
Bathroom Safety
Bathrooms also have water, which makes electrical safety very important.
Safety tips:
- Keep hair dryers, razors and other electric items away from sinks, tubs and toilets.
- Unplug appliances when you’re done using them.
- Install and test GFCI outlets monthly.
- Use safety covers on unused outlets, especially if kids are around.
Bedroom Safety
Bedrooms may seem low-risk, but chargers and cords can still cause problems.
Safety tips:
- Don’t run cords under beds, rugs, or furniture.
- Unplug phone chargers and other electronics when not in use.
- Check cords regularly for damage.
- Make sure outlets and switches are covered.
- Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors outside sleeping areas and on every floor of your home.
Basement Safety
Basements often hold big appliances and electrical panels.
Safety tips:
- Know where your main electrical shutoff is located.
- Label your circuit breaker box clearly so you know which breaker controls each area.
- Make sure breakers have the correct amperage.
- Clean dryer lint after every use and leave space behind washers and dryers for airflow.
- Use GFCI outlets near washers, sump pumps, and utility sinks.
- Keep space heaters away from boxes and stored items.
Garage Safety
Garages often use power tools, heavy equipment and additional appliances.
Safety tips:
- Check cords and plugs on all tools.
- Unplug tools when they’re not in use.
- Use tools with three-prong plugs when possible.
- Avoid overloading outlets, especially when using power tools.
- Make sure your garage has the correct breaker size for its electrical needs.
- Keep boxes and storage items away from outlets and wiring.
Outdoor Electrical Safety
While it’s important to make sure the inside of your home is safe, at home safety also means being careful outdoors.
Safety tips:
- Use outdoor-rated outlets with waterproof covers.
- Never use indoor extension cords outside. Look for cords marked “SJTW.”
- Only use generators outdoors, at least 20 feet away from your home, and never near doors or windows.
- Never open or touch your electric meter—only trained professionals should do that.
- Before digging for any project, call 811 at least three business days ahead to avoid hitting underground lines.
A Safe Home Starts With You
Electrical safety doesn’t have to be hard. By checking cords, using the right outlets and keeping electricity away from water and flammable items, you can help protect your home and your family.
This National Electrical Safety Month, take a few minutes to walk through your home and spot potential hazards. Small steps today can help prevent big problems tomorrow.
Dec 5, 2025 | Safety and Security
The holidays are a time for friends, family and appreciating all we have to be thankful for.
And nothing shows you care more than keeping those you love most safe throughout the season, right?
It can be a busy time of year, but don’t forget to make safety — especially electrical safety — a top priority when decorating your home. Here are 8 tips to keep your season merry, bright and safe.
- Check the halls before you deck the halls. Throw out any damaged light strands and replace them with LED bulbs. Check wall sockets, wires and connections to make sure they’re in good, working order. If you find a problem, contact a professional, certified electrician.
- Place decorations and trees at least three feet from heat sources like fireplaces, portable heaters, radiators and candles. If using candles, blow them out when you leave the room or go to sleep.
- Inspect your cords to make sure they’re marked for proper use. Use plastic or insulated clips to secure your cords. Avoid using nails, screws or tacks. Avoid running extension cords under rugs or in high traffic areas.
- If you have a natural tree, water it frequently to keep it fresh. The heat from incandescent bulbs can ignite a dry tree. If you have incandescent bulbs, consider switching to more energy-efficient LED bulbs.
- Be mindful of your electrical load. While some of us may enjoy big, beautiful and bright displays, overloading can cause fires. Follow manufacturer guidelines for how many sets of lights can be safely connected to your outlets and extension cords.
- When decorating outdoors, always carry ladders parallel to the ground and look up for power lines before setting up your ladder.
- Always hang your decorations during daylight hours.
- At night, make sure to turn your holiday lights and decorations off before leaving home and going to bed.
Don’t let something preventable steal your holiday cheer. Whether you are just getting ready to decorate — or if you already have — keep these tips in mind to stay safe and merry this season.
