As Halloween approaches, FirstEnergy Corp. has issued a set of safety recommendations for those preparing for the holiday. The company advises homeowners and families to keep safety in mind while decorating and participating in festivities.
FirstEnergy emphasizes the importance of keeping decorations at least 10 feet away from power lines and avoiding attachment of any items to utility poles or electrical equipment. If an object becomes stuck in a power line, individuals are urged not to attempt retrieval themselves, but instead call 888-LIGHTSS for assistance.
Before using electrical decorations, the company recommends inspecting cords for damage and replacing any that show signs of wear. It also advises unplugging cords that become hot during use. Decorations should carry a red Underwriters Laboratories (UL) tag for both indoor and outdoor use, or a green UL tag for indoor use only. The use of ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlets is encouraged, particularly for outdoor decorations, to help prevent electric shock.
FirstEnergy suggests using clips instead of staples or nails to secure lights, as these can damage cords. Flame-free lighting options, such as flashlights, LED candles, or glow sticks, are recommended for jack-o’-lanterns and other displays. Flammable decorations should be kept away from heat sources, and indoor lights should not be placed near curtains, carpets, or furniture.
For trick-or-treaters, the company advises keeping pathways clear and well-lit to reduce the risk of falls. Costumes should include reflective materials or glow sticks to improve visibility, and a flashlight should be carried. Children and adults are reminded to walk rather than run, stay on sidewalks, and use crosswalks when available. Motorists are encouraged to exercise extra caution and watch for children crossing streets.
FirstEnergy serves more than six million customers across Ohio, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, West Virginia, Maryland, and New York through its electric distribution companies. Its transmission subsidiaries operate approximately 24,000 miles of transmission lines connecting the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic regions.
“FirstEnergy is dedicated to integrity, safety, reliability and operational excellence,” the company stated.
More information about FirstEnergy and its safety initiatives can be found at firstenergycorp.com or by following the company on X @FirstEnergyCorp.
News media contacts include Hannah Catlett for Ohio Edison, Toledo Edison, The Illuminating Company; Will Boye for Mon Power and Potomac Edison; Todd Meyers for West Penn Power, Penelec, Met-Ed, Penn Power; and Chris Hoenig for JCP&L.
