Here are a few steps you can take before, during and after an outage to make it easier to cope:
- Before digging in your yard, always call the One-Call Center, Inc. (1-800-632-4949). This is a free service to mark under ground utility lines in an effort to avoid damaging them when digging.
- Never touch downed power lines or any thing contacting power lines. Although you may see lines that are down, they could still be energized. Never attempt to move trees or limbs from power lines.
- Always have a flashlight with extra batteries on hand, along with candles, kerosene, or oil lamps. Remember to never leave lit candles unattended.
- After the power comes back on, give the electrical system a chance to stabilize by gradually reconnecting the appliances you previously disconnected. At first, turn on only the most important appliances and wait a few minutes before reconnecting others.
- Have a battery-powered radio available. The radio will bring you weather reports, local news bulletins, and other important emergency information. During a widespread outage, the City of Monroe will contact local radio stations about restoration efforts.
- Check food supplies in refrigerator for signs of spoilage. Don't take chances with food you are unsure about. When in doubt, throw it out.
- Stock emergency food and a manual can opener. Keep refrigerator/freezer doors closed as much as possible to reduce chances of food spoilage.
- Turn off large appliances that come on automatically and disconnect sensitive equipment such as VCRs, computers and TVs to avoid damage from lightning or power surges.
If you experience a power outage, quickly report your power outage to the City of Monroe's Electric Division by calling (704) 282-4600.
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