Warmer weather brings the sunshine and enjoyment associated with summertime, but it also heralds the arrival of seasonal storms. To ensure preparedness for potential severe weather, a few proactive steps can be taken.
### Your Summer Storm Checklist
To prepare for power outages before they occur:
- Sign up for outage alerts and text messaging to receive updates if you lose power.
- Assemble an emergency kit containing:
- Fully charged devices and a car charger
- Flashlight, portable radio, and extra batteries
- First-aid kit
- Bottled water and convenience foods that do not require cooking
- Personal health items for each person
Know how to report a power outage.
For additional storm preparation tips, visit our website.
### Stay Safe During an Outage
In the event of a power loss, follow these safety guidelines:
- Assume all downed or low-hanging power lines are energized and dangerous. Maintain at least a 30-foot distance from the line and anything it might be touching. Report downed lines immediately to 9-1-1.
- If using a backup generator for emergency power, adhere strictly to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Use flashlights or battery-powered lanterns for light. Exercise caution when using candles; open flames pose significant fire hazards.
For more tips on managing during a power outage, visit our website.
### How We Restore Power
When severe weather results in widespread outages, our restoration process prioritizes public safety while crews work to restore service efficiently:
1. Isolate hazards and ensure public safety immediately after a storm.
2. Repair transmission and substation facilities.
3. Restore power to hospitals, police departments, fire departments, and other critical facilities.
4. Address outages affecting the largest number of customers first.
5. Restore power to individual homes.
Learn more about our restoration process by visiting our website.
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