Rhode Island Energy highlights electrical safety awareness in May

Published: 2026-05-13 08:08:00 ET PPL

Published on 05/13/2026 at 08:08 am EDT

PROVIDENCE - As warmer weather brings more outdoor projects, home upgrades, and everyday electrical use, Rhode Island Energy (RIE) is reminding customers to put safety first in recognition of National Electrical Safety Month, observed each May.

Electricity powers customers' daily lives, but it also requires care and caution. Simple steps can help prevent electrical fires, injuries, and outages, keeping families, workers, and communities safe year-round.

'Safety is foundational to everything we do at RIE,' said Cathy St. Onge, Senior Safety Professional at RIE. 'National Electrical Safety Month is an important reminder that everyday choices like how we use extension cords, charge devices, complete home improvement projects, or work near power lines can make a real difference in preventing accidents and protecting lives.'

This Electric Safety Month and throughout the year, RIE encourages customers to keep these electrical safety tips in mind:

Extension Cord & Appliance Safety

Never use extension cords as a permanent solution for powering appliances.

Do not overload outlets or power strips and never plug one extension cord into another.

Never plug space heaters or large appliances into extension cords or power strips.

Make sure cords are rated for their intended use (indoor vs. outdoor) and for the appropriate electrical load.

Check cords regularly and replace any that are damaged, frayed, or warm to the touch.

Avoid running cords under rugs, through doorways, or where they can become pinched.

Indoor Electrical Safety

Use energy-efficient appliances and unplug small electronics when they're not in use.

Install smoke alarms on every level of your home and test them monthly.

Use outlet covers to protect young children from electrical hazards.

Contact a qualified electrician for flickering lights, frequently tripped breakers, or warm outlets.

Outdoor & Digging Safety

Always call 811 at least three business days before digging so underground utilities can be marked-this service is free and required by law.

Stay at least 10 feet away from overhead power lines when using ladders, tools, or recreational equipment.

Never touch or go near downed power lines, assume they are live and dangerous. Call 911 and RIE immediately.

Keep electrical equipment and extension cords away from water and wet conditions.

'As we head into the busy spring and summer season, we encourage everyone to slow down, stay aware of their surroundings, and make electrical safety part of their routine,' St. Onge added.

About Rhode Island Energy

Rhode Island Energy provides essential energy services to over 770,000 customers across Rhode Island through the delivery of electricity and natural gas. Our team of more than 1,300 employees is dedicated to helping Rhode Island customers and communities thrive, while supporting the transition to a cleaner energy future. Rhode Island Energy is part of the PPL Corporation (NYSE: PPL) family of companies addressing energy challenges head-on by building smarter, more resilient, and more dynamic power grids and advancing sustainable energy solutions.

Contact:

Michael Dalo

Tel: 401.799.7000

Email: [email protected]