As Halloween approaches, FirstEnergy Corp. is urging the public to prioritize safety during their holiday celebrations. The company emphasizes the importance of being cautious with electrical decorations and other festive activities to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Candace Webb, Manager of Public Safety at FirstEnergy, stated: "As Halloween approaches, it's important to remember that while it's a time for fun and spooky celebrations, it's also a time when electrical hazards can be particularly scary. While you're enjoying the festivities with family or friends, it's crucial to be aware of the potential electrical and fire risks and take the necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable season for everyone."
FirstEnergy's "Stop. Look. Live." campaign offers guidance on minimizing risks associated with Halloween decorations. It advises against placing decorations near utility equipment such as poles and transformers. Electrical cords should be inspected for damage before use, and only appropriate clips should be used for securing lights and decorations.
Decorative lights must have Underwriter's Laboratory approval indicated by a UL seal on the tag. Outdoor lights should connect to outlets equipped with Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs). Indoors, lights should not touch window treatments or furniture. Traditional candles are discouraged in favor of flame-free alternatives like battery-operated candles or glow sticks.
The company also provides tips for trick-or-treating safety. It recommends maintaining clear pathways free of hazards like electrical cords at home entrances. Visibility can be enhanced by using flashlights or reflective materials on costumes. Traveling in well-lit areas is advised, along with walking in groups and utilizing sidewalks.
Motorists are reminded to exercise caution during trick-or-treat hours due to increased pedestrian activity.
FirstEnergy encourages customers to report streetlight issues promptly via phone or online submission. Detailed information such as location details and specific problems with streetlights will assist in addressing outages efficiently.
FirstEnergy serves over six million customers across several states through its electric distribution companies and operates extensive transmission lines connecting regions from the Midwest to the Mid-Atlantic.
For more information about FirstEnergy's initiatives, visit firstenergycorp.com or follow them on X @FirstEnergyCorp.
News media contacts include Hannah Catlett for Ohio Edison, Toledo Edison, The Illuminating Company; Todd Meyers for West Penn Power, Penelec, Met-Ed, Penn Power; Will Boye for Mon Power, Potomac Edison; Chris Hoenig for JCP&L.