It’s called Safety Town — a 3D interactive presentation that incorporates real electricity. It features a variety of scenarios to teach children (and adults) how to stay safe around electricity. One of the kids’ favorites involves a scenario where a bagel gets stuck in the toaster, and mom tries to get it out with a fork!
“I explain to kids that if something gets stuck in the toaster, the first thing they should do is unplug it and never put your fingers or any other object into the toaster while it is plugged in,” External Affairs Manager Mike LaScola said.
LaScola is considered a Safety Town pro at AEP Ohio. He’s been giving these types of presentations for years. The setup takes about 10 minutes; it’s compact and easy to use. However, since it deals with real electricity, safety — no pun intended — is top of mind. That’s why LaScola shares his knowledge and tips on how to use it properly and safely while keeping it fun for kids.
“Seeing the kids’ faces light up when they learn about safety is what makes it all worthwhile,” LaScola said. “It’s not just about teaching — it’s about engaging them in a way that they remember.”
Safety Town typically sees a lot of activity during the summer when kids are out of school, and community partners reach out to AEP Ohio asking, “Could you bring that thing that makes zapping noises and teaches our kids about electrical safety?”
Anyone who knows LaScola knows he is always willing to help, especially when it comes to teaching kids about safety. It’s part of AEP Ohio’s commitment to promoting safety and educating others about electricity.
“Safety is No. 1 here at AEP Ohio, but I feel that we also have the responsibility to keep the public safe,” LaScola said. “Teaching electrical safety in a public forum is a great way to get the safety message across.”
“They had a cool display that lights up and makes noise when we make mistakes and get shocked by electricity. Overall, they were great,” Delaware County Deputy Sheriff Doug Simila said after watching one of AEP Ohio’s Safety Town presentations.
The Delaware County Sheriff’s Office launched its Safety Town program in 2017, inviting community partners like AEP Ohio to present safety messages to kindergarten and first graders every summer.
“We hope you all really enjoyed our Safety Town program last year, because we’d LOVE to have you consider coming back for a repeat performance this summer,” Delaware County Sheriff’s Office Director of Public Information Tracy Whited said in an email. She asked if LaScola could come to four different schools and conduct eight 20-minute presentations this year. In one day, that means talking to over 100 kids about electrical safety!
School resource officers have reported that they really enjoy AEP Ohio’s presentation and continue to extend the invitation year after year. It’s even more special when our mascot, Louie the Lightning Bug, makes a surprise appearance.
“Mike has a great knack for making important safety info fun and engaging for kids,” Customer and External Affairs Manager Julia Ivinskas said. “I really appreciate how committed he is to safety awareness at AEP Ohio and how he uses it to connect with our community partners. Safety Town not only empowers the next generation with essential electrical safety knowledge, but it also fosters a sense of community and engagement, ensuring that learning about safety can be both fun and impactful.”
