Scammers beware: We’re on to you
On one front, this year is picking up right where 2020 left off: Scammers are still on the prowl.
We – as well as other utilities across the country – are seeing an increase in fraud and deceptive marketing tactics so far in 2021. Seems that scammers like to use challenging situations, like pandemics, to take advantage of people.
Have you ever received a call allegedly from PPL promising you a better rate for your electricity supply? Scammers are savvy. They can make their calls display PPL’s phone number on your caller I.D. But surely, it wasn’t us.
Maybe you received a threatening text message with a link to pay your electric bill to avoid a shut-off. The text may have offered a digital payment option. Again, that wasn’t us!
Or, worst-case scenario, someone who claimed they were from PPL showed up on your doorstep, in the middle of a pandemic, and offered you a fantastic deal on your electricity supply. Like your parents always said, if someone offers you a deal that’s too good to be true, it almost certainly is. And that individual certainly was NOT from PPL.
How do we know these weren’t PPL employees making these claims? Because we don’t do business that way.
We never market on behalf of electricity suppliers (remember PPL delivers your electricity, but you can shop around for the supplier that’s right for you), and we never make threats. If you’re behind on your bill, we’ll discuss options with you and develop a payment agreement to keep your lights on. We’ll never demand immediate cash to avoid shutoff.
If you’re concerned that you might be the target of a scam, you can always call us to verify your account status. If something seems fishy, stop, pause and call us at 1-800-342-5775 to verify BEFORE you make any decisions or provide any personal information.
Want more tips on how to spot fraud and deceptive marketing? Check out pplelectric.com/scams.
Ask Meg
I have electric heat, and my bill is always higher in the winter. Do you have any tips on how I can manage my use?
Absolutely. A good way to reduce your bill in the winter is to take some practical steps to conserve energy. Simple things like keeping your shades open during the day to capture the sun’s heat or adjusting your thermostat can make a real difference. Check out some tips at savewithppl.com. You should also consider getting on a budget billing plan. With budget billing you can smooth out your payments over the year so you know what to expect. Learn more at pplelectric.com.
It’s cold outside. Plus, the COVID-19 pandemic is still rearing its ugly head. That means you’re likely spending more time at home.
Here are five tips that can keep you and your family safe around electricity this winter.
1. Space heaters can supplement your heat source, but never plug one into an extension cord. Make sure you plug your heater directly into an outlet to avoid fires.
2. Install carbon monoxide (CO) alarms on every level of your home, especially outside of bedrooms.
3. Inspect your power strips and extension cords regularly, and be sure to replace any fraying or damaged cords, which can cause fires.
4. If you need to use a generator, place it in a cool, dry, well-ventilated outdoor location.
5. With remote work and virtual schooling, you probably have lots of electronics plugged in around the house. Unplug items, such as cell phone and laptop chargers, when you’re not using them to avoid overloading your outlets.
Source: Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI)
Safety through a child’s eyes
Every year, we ask the children of PPL employees to submit drawings about how their parents stay safe at work. Once again, they knocked it out of the park! One common theme is Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), likely because these kids see Mom or Dad leave the house in it every day. Here’s to staying safe on the job and at home!
Operation HELP: Lend a hand to a neighbor in need
We’re kicking off our annual Operation HELP campaign with hopes of helping more eligible families than ever before.
Operation HELP offers grants to customers struggling with their energy bills. And after a year like 2020, they can really use our support.
Every year, we support Operation HELP with nearly one million dollars in grant money. Our generous employees and customers also donate to help those in need. It’s the customer support that makes the program truly special. We can all find a way to help our community.
If you are able, we’re asking you to consider a donation. Your contribution, whether a one-time donation, or a few dollars every month, will help our neighbors keep their homes warm.
We live and work in this community together so when our friends, families, and neighbors need a hand, we deliver.
Visit pplelectric.com/operationhelp to learn more or donate.
The dangers of drifting balloons
In-person gatherings may be limited this winter, but that doesn’t mean we’re skipping celebrations altogether. Despite the pandemic, birthdays, graduations, weddings and holidays are still taking place – and balloons are still a preferred way to mark the occasions.
Balloons – particularly balloons made of mylar – are fun and festive, but did you know that they could also pose a safety risk around electrical wires?
Mylar balloons have a metallic coating that conducts electricity. If a mylar balloon drifts off and touches an overhead power line, it can lead to downed wires, fires or other injuries; and, it could cause power outages.
Help us keep our communities safe – and keep the lights on – by making sure you hold on tight to those mylar balloons. Tie them to a secure object, and if it’s a windy day, bring them inside just to be safe.
Source: Edison Electric Institute (EEI)