Mar 30, 2021 | Environment
Spring is upon us. And what better way to show our love of the environment than planting a tree? There’s just something about watching a tree adapt to all four seasons and grow right before our eyes. But before we get caught up in the beauty of nature, we must do a bit of research and take safety precautions before we pull out the shovels and start digging.
Here are a few tips for safe and successful tree prep and planting:
Keep tree roots in a cool place until ready to plant. Add water to moisten the roots, as needed.
Location, location, location – plan the spacing and location of your tree. And make sure it’s far away from any PPL power lines. If a tree is planted near power lines, eventually it may need to be trimmed or removed to keep your power reliable and the grid safe.
Call 811 before you dig! Know what’s below. It’s important to call 811 at least 3 business days before your project to avoid digging into any underground utility lines.
Consider using mulch (shredded bark or wood chips), around your tree to prevent damage to its roots.
For more information and a comprehensive guide to selecting, planting and caring for a new tree, visit www.arborday.org
Mar 30, 2021 | Community Involvement
In 2018 when we agreed to grant $100,000 to the Susquehanna Health Foundation toward an “ambulance bus,” it was an exciting and innovative idea. But this year, we saw that idea and vision come to life.
Now, this climate-controlled, 15 passenger, ambulance bus will be used for a variety of functions, all contributing to the health and safety of the community. The goal is to reach residents across 12 counties, 7 of which are within our territory, through paramedic and firefighter training and drills for emergency responders. It’s already been put to good use, delivering COVID19 vaccines to senior citizens in Williamsport, Lycoming County.
Since its founding in 2015, the PPL Foundation has contributed $15 million to organizations across our 29-county region. We’re proud to play a small part in preparing for the unique healthcare needs of this area, while supporting two of the PPL Foundation’s major focuses: education and sustainable communities.
We’re looking forward to seeing the ambulance bus in action!
Mar 19, 2021 | Community Involvement
Mike Bezick’s day-to-day routine as a journeyman, doesn’t normally include helping a stranded customer. But one cold day this winter, that’s exactly what he did.
As Mike drove back to our Lehigh Service Center during a fresh snowstorm, he discovered a vehicle that slid off the roadway into a tree. Mike stopped to see how he could help.
After assessing the situation, he confirmed the driver was conscious but recognized he could not exit his vehicle. The tree was blocking the drivers’ door. Mike, concerned for his safety, immediately called 911 to report the accident. Then he stayed with the driver, keeping him calm, until the emergency responders arrived.
Our employees are always willing to offer a helping hand, whether that means volunteering in their local communities, or stopping at the scene of an accident. Mike embodies our corporate values. And we’re proud of the courage and kindness he displayed as he helped a customer in need.
Feb 16, 2021 | Safety and Security
In-person gatherings may be limited again this year, but that doesn’t mean we’re skipping celebrations altogether. Despite the pandemic, birthdays, graduations, weddings and holidays are still taking place – and balloons are still a preferred way to mark the occasions.
Balloons – particularly balloons made of mylar – are fun and festive, but did you know that they could also pose a safety risk around electrical wires?
Mylar balloons have a metallic coating that conducts electricity. If a mylar balloon drifts off and touches an overhead power line, it can lead to downed wires, fires or other injuries; and, it could cause power outages.
Help us keep our communities safe – and keep the lights on – by making sure you hold on tight to those mylar balloons. Tie them to a secure object, and if it’s a windy day, bring them inside just to be safe.
Source: Edison Electric Institute (EEI)
Jan 27, 2021 | Safety and Security
Spending more time indoors this winter?
We have 5 tips to keep you and your family safe around electricity this season:
- Space heaters can supplement your heat source, but never plug one into an extension cord. Make sure you plug your heater directly into an outlet to avoid fires.
- Install carbon monoxide (CO) alarms on every level of your home, especially outside of bedrooms.
- Inspect your power strips and extension cords regularly, and be sure to replace any fraying or damaged cords, which can cause fires.
- If you need to use a generator, place it in a cool, dry, well-ventilated outdoor location.
- With remote work and virtual schooling, you probably have lots of electronics plugged in around the house. Unplug items, such as cell phone and laptop chargers, when you’re not using them to avoid overloading your outlets.
And while we’re on the topic of winter, remember not to bury our pad-mounted transformers when shoveling snow or using a snow blower. And please don’t let young children play on or around them. It’s important to keep the transformers visible and easily accessible for our crews.
For more safety tips in and around your home, visit pplelectric.com.
