PPL Electric Utilities is reminding its customers to remember electrical safety to ensure the well being of families, prevent fires and reduce injury risks.

According to a release from PPL, May is National Electrical Safety Month, and the utility company is offering simple steps to help avoid risks.

The Electrical Safety Foundation International reported that electrical home structure fires cause an estimated 51,000 fires, 1,400 injuries, 500 deaths and roughly $1.3 billion in property damage each year, the release said.

“Safety is fundamental to our role as an electric utility and to the trust our communities place in us,” said PPL Electric Utilities President Christine Martin. “By operating and maintaining the system safely — and by helping customers understand electrical risks at home — we can reduce hazards and help keep our communities safe.”

PPL is encouraging customers to take time to inspect their homes for potential electrical hazards and to contact a qualified electrician if problems are identified.

Here are some simple tips for customers to remember:

— Use extension cords properly. Never overload extension cords, use more than one cord at a time, place cords under rugs or secure them with nails or staples. Inspect cords regularly and replace any that are damaged.

— Know the warning signs of overloaded circuits. Flickering or dimming lights, frequently tripped breakers, warm or discolored wall plates or buzzing sounds from outlets may indicate a problem.

— Practice power tool safety. Use ground fault circuit interrupters, avoid using cords longer than 100 feet, keep tools away from water and live wires, and wear appropriate protective equipment when operating.

— Maintain working smoke alarms. Install alarms in every bedroom, outside sleeping areas and on every floor of the home. Test alarms monthly and replace batteries annually.

— Stay safe outside of your home. Call 811 at least three business days before any planned excavation., identify overhead power lines before starting projects, keep outdoor receptacles clear of moisture and avoid using electrical equipment in wet conditions.

“Safety is more than a commitment at PPL Electric – it’s a value that is rooted in everything we do,” said Doug Haupt, manager of Public Safety at PPL Electric. “Whether it’s theater performances for children, running a traveling safety exhibit for first responders or providing tips like these, the company remains committed to making sure these messages make it into minds and homes across its 29 counties.”

PPL notes electrical safety can save lives, homes and money. To make this easier, PPL created a downloadable at-home electrical safety checklist its customers can use through each area of their home to make sure they’re properly protected.

To download the checklist, you can visit pplelectric.com/blog.