There is no substitute for being prepared. The employees at PGEC make sure they are prepared for storms before they happen. PGEC wants you to be prepared as well.

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June 1 marks the official start of hurricane season, with the peak storm threat occurring from mid-August to late October. Summer also brings with it severe thunderstorms that can wreak havoc.

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FOLLOW THESE TIPS TO STAY SAFE IN THE EVENT THAT STORMS OCCUR:

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• Avoid wires and water – When lightning strikes a home during a storm, the electrical charge can surge through pipes and utility wires. That means you can be injured if you’re touching water or any device that’s plugged in, whether it’s a landline phone or toaster.

• Skip the makeshift shelter – During a storm, it's tempting to take cover under a picnic gazebo or golf cart, but in open-sided structures, a lightning bolt's path of least resistance to the ground could be you. On top of that, these structures raise your risk of a lightning strike because of their height. Keep moving toward a suitable shelter.

• Portable generators – Take special care with portable generators, which can provide a good source of power, but if improperly installed or operated can become deadly. Do not connect generators directly to household wiring. Power from generators can back-feed along power lines and electrocute anyone coming in contact with them, including line workers making repairs. It is best to hire a qualified, licensed electrician to install your generator and ensure that it is installed properly. Be sure to only operate a generator outside, away from windows and doors to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. 

• Flooded areas – Stay away from downed power lines and avoid walking through flooded areas. Power lines could be submerged and still energized with electricity. Report any downed lines you see to PGEC by calling 804-834-2424.

• Electrical equipment – Never use electrical equipment that is wet — especially outdoors. It could be a potential danger after a summer storm. Water can cause damage to equipment and parts, posing a shock or fire hazard. Before storms happen, assemble an emergency storm preparedness kit to ensure you have the necessities in the event of extended power outages. We will do our best to avoid power outages, but sometimes Mother Nature has other plans. Be sure to check our website, as well as Facebook and Twitter on your smartphone for the latest updates during a power outage.

 

Hurricane & Storm Safety & Preparation

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Hurricane Preparation - COVID-19

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Hurricane Preparation - Checklist

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Current Forecast Information

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Virginia Hurricane Evacuation Guide During the COVID-19 Pandemic

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