December is recognized as National Safe Toys and Gifts Month, a time to emphasize the importance of safety when choosing gifts for loved ones. FirstEnergy Corp. advises customers to consider electrical safety while selecting and using new toys and products during the holiday season.
Drones remain popular gifts this year, particularly among younger children who may not fully understand the risks involved in their operation. Flying drones near power lines, substations, or other electrical equipment can lead to serious damage and pose safety hazards to operators and those nearby.
Candace Webb, Manager of Public Safety at FirstEnergy, stated: “Drones can be great fun, but like driving a car, there is an inherent responsibility that goes along with flying to keep yourself safe and the electricity flowing reliably.” To assist new flyers in learning about drone safety, FirstEnergy has developed Drone Safety Zone, a free online drone racing video game designed to teach players rules and best practices for drone operation.
When giving a drone as a gift, it is important to ensure it is suitable for the recipient’s age and that all rules and restrictions are reviewed before use:
– Check if your drone needs registration with the Federal Aviation Administration.
– Become a licensed pilot before flying.
– Maintain a distance of at least 200 feet from power lines or electrical equipment.
– Fly drones at or below 400 feet where they remain visible.
– Avoid flying in dark or windy conditions.
If a drone crashes near downed lines or substations, do not attempt retrieval. Instead, contact FirstEnergy at 1-888-LIGHTSS (1-888-544-4877) for safe recovery by an employee.
In addition to drones, FirstEnergy provides general electrical safety tips for all ages during gift exchanges:
– Read manufacturer labels on toys used by or around children to ensure age appropriateness.
– Exercise caution with battery-operated gifts due to choking risks from small batteries like button cells.
– Be aware of cords on plug-in gifts to prevent strangulation and shock risks.
– Avoid overloading outlets and extension cords.
– Do not operate or allow children to play with electrical toys near water.
FirstEnergy emphasizes its commitment to integrity, safety, reliability, and operational excellence. The company operates one of the largest investor-owned electric systems in the U.S., serving customers across several states including Ohio and Pennsylvania. Follow them on X @FirstEnergyCorp or visit www.firstenergycorp.com for more information.
For media inquiries: Hannah Catlett – Ohio Edison; Will Boye – Mon Power; Todd Meyers – West Penn Power; Chris Hoenig – JCP&L. For investor contacts: Gina Caskey.
