Hurricane season is officially underway and early forecasts show this season could bring more storm systems than usual.
The Hawaiian Electric Companies urge customers — residential and commercial — to ready themselves and their properties for potential storms.
The companies have committed significant resources to clearing trees and vegetation from around power lines and equipment. In the past year, hundreds of employees have undergone emergency training, participated in intensive drills and developed detailed plans to ensure the companies can respond quickly and safely to restore power after a storm.
Customers should develop their own plans and consider these following tips:
• Gather emergency supplies, such as a battery-powered radio, flashlights, lanterns and batteries. Be prepared to monitor storm-related communications issued VIA emergency broadcast radio stations.
• Store enough water, non-perishable food, medicine and personal hygiene supplies for your family members and pets to last at least seven days.
• Routinely use high-quality surge protectors to help protect household appliances that incorporate electronics, computer equipment, home entertainment systems and motors.
• Turn off and unplug all unnecessary electric appliances and equipment during a storm or power outage. When power comes back and is stable, gradually plug in the equipment one at a time.
• If your power goes out during a storm, use flashlights or chemical light sticks instead of candles or kerosene lamps as open flames CAN create a fire hazard.
• Shut off your electricity at the main breaker or switch if you need to evacuate.
• Consider having a backup generator if you are dependent on an electrically powered life support system. Or, make plans to go to an alternate location where electricity will be available.
Be prepared to take your medical equipment and medications with you.
• If your business or residence is equipped with a backup generator, learn how to properly operate the device to avoid causing damage or injury.
• Prepare a list of emergency contacts that includes phone numbers for insurance agents, vendors, physicians or any other important individuals.
• If you see a downed power line, assume it is energized and dangerous. Stay away from downed power lines — at least 30 feet or more (about two car lengths).
• For power outage updates, follow the company on Twitter: #OahuOutage, #MauiOutage, #LanaiOutage, #MolokaiOutage, #BigIslandOutage.
For more tips, visit Hawaiianelectric.com/prepare.
