Hawaiian Electric Co. is reminding the public that posting signs, advertisements, flyers, notices or other materials on utility poles is illegal, even during election season.

The company says postings may also pose a risk to utility crews performing routine maintenance and emergency work.

Hawaiian Electric spokesman Darren Pai says people are wrong if they think utility poles are good places to post signs about political activities, lost pets, garage sales and special events.

The company says nails, staples and tacks used to attach signs to poles can puncture insulated safety gloves and other protective equipment, exposing line workers to serious injury.

Penalties can be as severe as a $500 fine or 30 days in prison.