Summertime means barbeques, relaxing by the pool – and the possibility for severe weather. Learn the precautions you should take before, during and after a storm to be ready and stay safe.
BEFORE A STORM:
Be informed.
- Listen to the weather forecast to understand the severity of the storm.
Have the necessary items ready.
- Flashlights, not candles
- Fresh batteries
- Battery-operated clock radio
- Fully-charged cell phone
- Non-perishable foods
- Water
- Local maps
- Blankets
- First-aid kit
- Cash, not just credit or debit cards
Develop an emergency plan.
- Your plan should include alternative arrangements in the event you need to leave your home and stay somewhere else. It also should include provisions for family members with special needs, such as relatives who are elderly, disabled or have medical needs, or infants.
DURING A STORM:
During a power outage, turn off all appliances.
- To avoid overloading circuits, turn off your furnace, air conditioner and water heater. Leave one lamp switched on so you will know when your electric service is restored.
Use generators properly.
- To avoid carbon monoxide poisoning, never use a generator inside your home or in an attached garage. Generators should only be used outside in dry, well-ventilated areas, away from air intakes into the home.
- If your generator needs to be wired directly into your home’s electrical system, use a licensed electrician.
- If your generator is connected directly to your home’s electrical system, turn off the main circuit breaker to avoid potential injury to crews working to restore power.
Avoid using certain household items.
- Don’t light candles, they could start a fire.
- Don’t use a gas cooking range for emergency heating. It could produce deadly carbon monoxide fumes.
AFTER A STORM:
Stay informed.
Be aware.
- Stay away from fallen wires.
- Report fallen wires by calling 1-800-EDISON-1 (1-800-334-7661).
