Thousands of elementary school children across Southern California Edison’s (SCE) service territory have learned the importance of electrical safety through a live theatre production of “A Bug’s Light!” starring Sparky the Wonder Bug. 

“Should you climb trees near power lines?” Sparky shouted to students in the auditorium at Fremont Elementary School in Alhambra.

“No-o-o-o-o-o-o!” a chorus of voices responded.

“Should you fly a kite around power lines?”

“No-o-o-o-o-o-o!” they repeated in unison.

“Do water and electrical appliances mix?”

“No-o-o-o-o-o!” they shouted back.

As part of National Preparedness Month, captive audiences of children laughed, shouted and squealed with delight Sept. 16-20 as they learned what they and their families can do to stay safe around electricity both while outdoors, including around downed power lines, and inside their homes.  

Performances were held at schools in Compton, Alhambra, Moreno Valley, San Bernardino and Oxnard. Additional shows are scheduled Sept. 27 at two elementary schools in Santa Ana.

“Safety is our No. 1 priority and we want children, as well as adults, to know how to be safe around electricity,” said Janet Clayton, senior vice president, Corporate Communications for Edison International and SCE. “When we saw how well students and teachers reacted to ‘A Bug’s Light!’ last year, we were excited to bring it back again and continue educating children about electrical safety in a way that makes learning fun.” 

The multimedia, interactive production is produced by The National Theater for Children with a $25,000 grant provided by Edison International.  Professional actors use a combination of interactive learning techniques to entertain and engage students, and include classroom curriculum, digital educational games and homework assignments.

In addition to the performances, several employees from Edison International and SCE participate, delivering key safety messages at each performance.

"One of these kids can save a life," said David Mead, senior vice president, Transmission & Distribution for SCE.