School is back in session, bringing busy mornings, school buses, and students waiting throughout our neighborhoods. As families settle into a new routine, North East Power encourages everyone to keep these important safety reminders in mind.
Eyes Up. Phones Down.
School zones and neighborhoods are especially busy during morning and afternoon hours. Drivers should put their phones away, avoid distractions and watch carefully for students walking, biking or getting on and off the bus.
Slow down, follow posted school-zone speed limits and obey all crossing guards. When a school bus displays flashing red lights, stop and remain stopped until the lights are turned off and the bus begins moving again.
No text or notification is worth risking a life. Keep your eyes up and your phone down.
Green Utility Boxes Are Not Benches or Toys
Students waiting for the school bus should never sit, stand, or play on the green utility boxes found in many neighborhoods. These boxes are pad-mounted transformers that contain electrical equipment—not benches, playground equipment or toys.
Although pad-mounted transformers are designed with safety in mind, children should always remain a safe distance away from them. Never climb on the boxes, attempt to open them, or place toys or other objects on or near them.
If you notice a transformer that appears damaged, unlocked or open, stay away and contact North East Power immediately.
Review Electrical Safety with Your Family
The beginning of the school year is a good time to remind children to:
- Stay away from substations, utility poles and electrical equipment.
- Never climb trees located near power lines.
- Keep kites, drones and other flying toys away from power lines.
- Never touch a downed power line or anything it may be contacting. Always assume a downed power line is energized. Stay far away and call North East Power or 911 to report it.
- Tell a trusted adult if you notice damaged electrical equipment.
A safe school year begins with all of us. By eliminating distractions, slowing down and teaching children to respect electrical equipment, we can help protect students throughout the communities we serve.
North East Power wishes all local students, teachers and families a safe and successful school year!