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Energy & Safety

How to Prepare for Storms

 
O&R line crews repairing damaged power lines after a severe ice stormHurricanes, ice storms, tornadoes and severe thunderstorms are capable of causing complete destruction to large portions of our electric system. It takes time to clear away debris, deliver new poles, wire, transformers and other equipment, and do the actual rebuilding. Even with an all-out effort, which is what you can expect from us, some customers could be without power for days. That's why it is so important to take all necessary steps if severe weather is forecasted.
Things to Do
Stay up-to-date on changing weather conditions Know what the various weather advisories mean and when you should begin your storm preparations.
Update your personal list of emergency phone numbers Complete your Personal Emergency Action Planner [pdf].
Familiarize yourself with how to report a power outage Have available our toll-free number (1-877-434-4100), your customer account number (on your bill) and, if you live in a rural area on a road with few cross streets, the 10-digit number that can be found on the nearest utility pole.
Set refrigerator and freezer controls to coldest settings If there's a power outage, the food will be colder and last longer. Remember to keep the doors shut during the outage and to reset the controls when power is restored.
Plan how you will feed your family Without power, it may be difficult to prepare meals at home. If outages are widespread, or travel is dangerous, restaurants may not be available. If you have an outdoor gas grill, make sure you have a sufficient fuel supply.
Plan for alternate lodging Without power in the winter, you may not be able to heat your house sufficiently to stay warm.
Learn how to manually open and close any garage door, security door or gate  
Fill bathtub with water If you have well water, the electrically powered pump will not operate and you'll need the water from the tub to flush toilets. (Take necessary precautions with small children.)
Fill your car's gas tank It could become necessary for you to evacuate and travel to a safer location. Gas stations may be without power, too.
Fully charge your laptop and cell phone If you have a portable computer with a working Internet connection, and/or a cell phone, you'll have additional ways of communicating and getting information during a storm emergency.
Know the radio stations that cover your local area During a power outage, you can keep up-to-date on changing conditions in your area with a battery-powered radio.
Items to Gather
Flashlights Keep these within easy reach of family members.
Battery-powered radio Tune in for weather information, public safety advisories and power restoration updates.
Extra batteries Have an extra supply for your flashlights and radio.
Candles and matches If needed, use with extreme care, especially around children.
Hard-wired or fully-charged cell phone If the base station of your cordless phone plugs into the wall, your phone will be unusable during a power outage.
Containers of drinking water  
Non-perishable food Check freshness dates and replace if necessary.
Manual can opener  
Paper plates, plastic utensils  
Cash ATMs and credit card readers could be out of service if power or telecommunications lines are down.