NC’s Public Power Communities Prepare
for Tropical Storm Alberto
Raleigh, NC, June 13, 2006 – Remnants of
Tropical Storm Alberto will reach North Carolina Wednesday. Flood
watches are posted for southeastern North Carolina. Alberto is expected
to become extratropical on Wednesday as it moves through eastern
North Carolina.
North Carolina’s cities that provide electric service are
ready to respond to outages that may occur from winds and tree limbs.
Being prepared and planning ahead are critically important in remaining
safe during any storms. North Carolina’s public power communities
have several tips to help during any time of bad weather or storm.
Log onto www.ncpublicpower.com
for storm central tips.
Before Any Storm Strikes
• Stock up on non-perishable food, medicine, baby supplies
and pet food.
• Purchase bottled water; 1 gallon of water per person per
day.
• Gather emergency supplies, such as flashlights, battery-operated
radios, extension cords, emergency generators, etc. and purchase
extra batteries.
• Monitor official weather bulletins.
• Keep extra cash on hand, as automatic teller machines or
banks don’t operate without power.
• Review evacuation routes.
• Arrange for safe sheltering for your pet if you must evacuate.
Public shelters usually do not accept pets.
• Keep your vehicle’s fuel tank full.
• Move yard items and patio furniture inside. Even small items
can become dangerous in high winds.
• If a family member uses life-sustaining medical equipment,
develop an emergency plan for generating power or plan to relocate.
Electric Tips During Any Storms
• Turn off and unplug electrical appliances and equipment
such as TVs and computers.
• Watch for downed wires. Stay back and consider all lines
energized.
• Stay indoors in an interior room, away from windows.
Additional Safety Tips
• Check for electrical damage inside your home, such as frayed
wires, sparks or the smell of burning insulation. If you find damage
to your meter box or weather head, don't turn your power on until
an electrician inspects your system and makes necessary repairs.
• Do not connect a generator directly to your home's electrical
system. It is dangerous to you, your neighbors and utility workers.
Follow manufacturer's directions regarding connecting appliances
directly to your generator. Use a generator only in a well-ventilated
area.
Public power customers should report any power outages or downed
lines directly to their town utility.
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Press Release