SCE has crews on standby and reminds its customers to never approach or touch downed power lines
With strong Santa Ana winds, sometimes up to 70 mph, forecast throughout the Southland this weekend, Southern California Edison (SCE) reminds its customers to be on alert for downed power lines and possible power outages.
The National Weather Service has issued a wind advisory for Los Angeles and Ventura counties starting tonight through Sunday. Wind gusts could reach between 65 and 70 mph during the event’s peak on Saturday.
“We will be closely monitoring the wind conditions this weekend and SCE has crews ready to respond in case of any additional outages or possible downed wires,” said Jim Cherrie, SCE director of Grid Operations. “Currently, our system is performing well.”
SCE reminds its customers to never approach of touch a downed power line or dangling wire — even if it appears not to be live — and call 911 immediately. Traffic signals may be out so approach those intersections as four-way stops.
Customers may report or inquire about outages at 1-800-611-1911 and get the latest information using the SCE outages app at www.sce.com/outages. Customers can also get the latest information by visiting on.sce.com/staysafe or at twitter.com/sce and facebook.com/sce.
SCE also offers these tips:
· If you’re in a vehicle with a fallen power line on it, stay in the vehicle and remain calm until help arrives. It is OK to use your cellphone to call 911. If you must leave the vehicle, remember to exit away from downed power lines and exit by jumping from the vehicle. You must not touch the vehicle and the ground at the same time. Then proceed away from the vehicle by shuffling your feet until you are several yards away.
· Water and electricity don’t mix. Water is an excellent conductor of electricity. Do not step in or enter any water that a downed power line may be touching.
· If you use a generator, place it outdoors and plug individual appliances directly into it, using a heavy-duty extension cord. Connecting generators directly to household circuits creates “backfeed,” which is dangerous to repair crews. Please consult the manufacturer’s manual for operating the generator.
· Do not use any equipment inside that is designed for outdoor heating or cooking. Such equipment can emit carbon monoxide and other toxic gases.
· Remember to check emergency supplies to be sure you have a battery-operated radio, a flashlight and fresh batteries.
