Safety During And After Storms

With the latest storms that have affected our area, it is important to remember some key safety tips to remember during and after the storm.

Power Line Safety After Storms

Do not go near downed lines or fallen wires.
Stay away from anything touching downed lines (tree limbs, vehicles, puddles, etc.).
If someone already made contact with a power line, do not try to rescue them. You can’t help if you become a victim. Call 911.
Report downed power lines by calling 911.

Metal objects like fences and guardrails can become energized if a power line contacts them.
Do not attempt to remove tree limbs from power lines.
The ground may be energized near a downed line.
Standing water (puddles from flooding) may be energized from a downed line.
Parked vehicles may be energized from a downed line.

Keep your life and your comfort by using your portable generator properly.

Locate your generator in a well-ventilated area. Never run it inside, even in your garage. Gasoline-powered generators produce carbon monoxide, and the fumes can be deadly.
Do not connect the portable generator to any house wiring.
Never connect a portable generator or a motor home/RV generator directly to your home's electrical system during a power outage. Electricity could back-feed into the power lines and endanger power utility workers.

Plug appliances directly into the generator using heavy duty, properly grounded extension cords. Make sure that extension cords are not frayed or worn.
Limit the number of appliances you use to the recommended wattage of the generator.
Use the generator only when necessary, and don't overload it. Turn it off at night while you sleep and when you are away from home to avoid a possible fire hazard.
Contact the manufacturer or a licensed electrician if you have any doubts about how to properly use a portable electric generator.

Note: Read all instructions carefully and follow manufacturer's guidelines.