If you will be using a generator while waiting for power to be restored, please keep important safety tips in mind.
[Read more…] about Generator Safety TipsREPORT FALLEN LINES
Call 800-579-3019 to report downed power lines after the storm.
Disaster Kits
Make sure that if the worst happens, you are prepared in your home with an emergency kit stocked with the basics. This kit can be as simple or inclusive as your own personal needs. If you are just getting started with your kit, it can be overwhelming to decide what you should include. The following offers a basic list of items, and is followed with a more inclusive list which may accommodate for additional needs. The following recommendations outline what you may need to survive on your own for up to 72 hours.
(SOURCE: Ready.gov)
Basic Disaster Kit Supplies
- Water. One gallon per person, per day, for three days.
- Food. Three day supply of non-perishables.
- Battery-powered or hand crank radio or NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert.
- Flashlight
- First aid kit
- Extra batteries
- Whistle to signal for help
- Dust mask to help filter contaminated air
- Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation
- Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities (natural gas)
- Manual can opener for food
- Local maps
- Cell phone with non-electrical chargers
Other Possible Necessities
- Prescription medications
- Non-prescription medications such as pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, antacids or laxatives
- Glasses and contact lens solution
- Infant formula, bottles, diapers, wipes, diaper rash cream
- Pet food and extra water for your pet
- Cash or traveler’s checks
- Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records saved electronically or in a waterproof, portable container
- Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person
- Complete change of clothing appropriate for your climate and sturdy shoes
- Household chlorine bleach and medicine dropper to disinfect water
- Fire extinguisher
- Matches in a waterproof container
- Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items
- Mess kits, paper cups, plates, paper towels and plastic utensils
- Paper and pencil
- Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children
If you would like to delve deeper into planning and preparing your disaster kit, visit www.ready.gov for even more great tips!
BE AWARE OF SCAMMERS
Southern Public Power District urges the public to be weary of callers who attempt to collect on electric bills.
[Read more…] about BE AWARE OF SCAMMERSCellular Phone and Computer Electrical Safety
May is National Electrical Safety Month, and it’s a great time to consider how to avoid potential electrical hazards.
Every day, we rely on electricity to power our homes and offices. However, it is important to always be safe around electric appliances, equipment and power lines. Electricity is an essential and dependable resource but
we must all be aware of the serious and sometimes deadly consequences of using electricity unsafely.
By taking simple precautions, everyone can avoid electrically related fires, fatalities, injuries and property loss.
CELLULAR PHONE & COMPUTER ELECTRICAL SAFETY:
- When charging, stick to items approved by the manufacturer. If the charger or battery has a UL mark on it, it has gone through rigorous testing to ensure safety. Third party chargers or batteries may be inconsistent with your device’s components and can cause serious hazards.
- Always charge your device in a dry environment away from all sources of moisture.
- Inspect your cables and devices. If you see any debris or damage, discontinue use.
- Store your cables and devices in a safe place away from moisture, extreme temperatures, and debris as these can cause electric shock.
- Keep connectors free of foreign objects.
- Always plug and unplug your cables and charges by holding onto the end of the cable.
- Always charge your device in a well-ventilated area.
SOURCE: Federated S.A.F.E. Talk
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Electrical Safety Tips: Outdoors
May is National Electrical Safety Month, and it’s a great time to consider how to avoid potential electrical hazards.
Every day, we rely on electricity to power our homes and offices. However, it is important to always be safe around electric appliances, equipment and power lines. Electricity is an essential and dependable resource but
we must all be aware of the serious and sometimes deadly consequences of using electricity unsafely.
By taking simple precautions, everyone can avoid electrically related fires, fatalities, injuries and property loss.
OUTDOORS:
- Keep yourself and your equipment at least 10 feet away from all overhead power lines.
- Stay 50 feet away from any fallen power lines; never touch a downed power line.
- Never touch anything in contact with a power line.
- Always call your local utility or 911 if you see lines d own.
- Watch for overhead lines every time you use a ladder, work on roofs, trees or carry long tools or loads.
- Carry ladders horizontally to reduce the risk of touching power lines.
- Do not spray water or liquid cleaners near electrical service entrance.
- Know what’s below before you dig. At least 3 days before starting any digging or excavating project, call 811, the National One Call Center, to have underground utility lines, pipes and cables marked for free.
- Avoid planting trees underneath power lines or near utility equipment.
- Keep kites, model airplanes, and metallic balloons away from power lines.
SOURCE: Federated S.A.F.E. Talk
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