Lafayette Elementary School was buzzing with excitement as it hosted the National Theatre Company’s “Space Station Safety” assembly, sponsored by PPL Electric Utilities. The event aimed to educate students on the importance of electrical safety in a fun and engaging manner.
Louis Zoeller, a representative from PPL Public Safety, highlighted the significance of early education on electrical safety. “Teaching kids at a young age about the dangers of electricity is crucial,” he explained. “We’ve unfortunately witnessed incidents where children, out of curiosity, have approached downed power lines, resulting in injuries or even fatalities. By instilling this knowledge early on, we hope to prevent such tragedies.” The show had four main teaching points: what electricity is, what electricity is used for, how to identify dangerous electrical situations and how to prevent electrical fires.
The event showcased a lively performance by the National Theatre Company, focusing on the significance of understanding electricity and its associated risks. Through interactive skits and engaging activities, students learned valuable lessons on electrical safety in a fun and memorable way.
In addition to the theater presentations, PPL Electric Utilities conducts various safety seminars and outreach programs, including the utilization of their LiveLine trailer, to educate both children and adults about the potential dangers of electricity. The emphasis on safety remains a top priority for PPL, encouraging individuals to report any safety concerns promptly.
When asked about the choice of theater for this educational initiative, Zoeller expressed enthusiasm for the National Theatre Company’s approach. “Theater adds a personal touch to the message,” he said. “It makes learning fun and memorable for the students while delivering essential safety information.”
Beth Ann Hinnenkamp, Assistant Principal at Lafayette Elementary School, praised the assembly for its effectiveness in engaging students. “The Space Station Safety assembly is an action-packed and entertaining way for our students to learn about power,” she remarked. “The students were engaged and joyful while learning important life lessons on how to stay safe while using electricity.”
As the collaboration between the School District of Lancaster and PPL Electric Utilities continues to prioritize safety education, both organizations are committed to equipping students with the knowledge and skills necessary to stay safe in their communities. Through proactive initiatives like these, the community aims to reduce accidents and ensure the well-being of its youngest members. “We’re huge on safety,” emphasized Zoeller. “We just want to make sure everybody’s safe around our lines. If you see anything, obviously, we encourage, call 911, call 811 if you see anything that’s scary, or just call us directly. Just to notify us of anything.”
For more information on electrical safety initiatives and resources, please visit the PPL website. For more photos, visit us on Facebook.
