Playing It Safe Around Electricity

Agents Moldy and Skuller embark on a mission to chase after The Slug, an extraterrestrial determined to use electricity in hazardous ways.

This scenario might seem like the plot of a modern science fiction television series. Yet, this story unfolded at Emery Park Elementary School in Alhambra during an electrical safety play put on by The National Theatre for Children.

"Agents of Safety" is a live, interactive production that aims to teach children electricity is not something to play with. Moldy and Skuller's ultimate goal is to educate both aliens and humans on four topics: how electricity is made, the uses of electricity, how to identify a dangerous situation and ways to be safe around electricity.

More than 220 students from kindergarten through sixth grade watched and enthusiastically roared as the agents defeated the unsafe extraterrestrial beings.

Emery Park Elementary students learn how to spot potential electrical hazards during "Agents of Safety."

"Interactive plays are a unique experience compared to digital media such as online videos," said fourth- and fifth-grade teacher Megan Wong. "It can be challenging for the kids to stay focused during a play, but because it's engaging, they learn while having fun. It connects with them really well."

Back in the classroom, second-grader Will reflected on what he learned and was quick to disclose some of the potential dangers he has noticed at home.

"I've seen many plugs in one socket, but now I know the safety rules for home," he said.

Educating students on recognizing such hazards enhances their awareness and encourages them to inform their families about potential dangers.

Edison International has sponsored The NTC's electrical and wildfire safety plays for 13 years. Its grants support learning packages with activity books in English and Spanish as well as games, quizzes and lesson plans for elementary schools and Boys and Girls Clubs in Southern California Edison's service area.

(l-r) Agents Moldy and Skuller team up to defeat unsafe extraterrestrials by explaining the various ways electricity can be hazardous.

"I have a nine-year-old daughter who loves theater, so I think presenting a learning concept like this is really special," said Elizabeth Seelman, Edison International director of Corporate Relations and Philanthropy. "Safety is a super important topic at her age, and she definitely remembers things that are presented in a fun and unique way."

With Edison's help, Emery Park Elementary faculty were thrilled to provide interactive learning sessions as a break from their standard class activities.

"It's exciting to bring this safety play to our school. The students don't have many opportunities in the classroom to talk about safety," said Linh Ly, principal of Emery Park Elementary. "Teachers can incorporate electrical safety in their science lessons."

The NTC will hold the "Agents of Safety" plays at 38 schools this fall across Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, Orange, Ventura, Santa Barbara and Tulare counties - helping more kids have safety revelations, like Easton.

"Electricity can be dangerous," said the fifth grader. "Never put your phone or electronics near the bathtub. This play was literally fire!"

The do's and dont's of electrical safety:

• DO stay 100 feet away from a downed power line and call 911.
• DO stay away from high-voltage equipment, like those at substations or transformers.
• DO change out any damaged cords right away. Electrical cords can get frayed and worn, exposing wires and copper that can shock people or pets.
• DO keep electronics away from water.
• DON'T overload extension cords or wall sockets.
• DON'T stick items or fingers into an outlet.
• DON'T shoot water at electric power lines. Electricity could travel down that stream of water and hurt people.
• DON'T climb power poles or trees near power lines.
• DON'T release metallic balloons outside. Always keep them tied to a weight outdoors.

For more information on electrical safety, visit sce.com/safety.