As the Eastern U.S. is hit with its second major snowstorm in the past week, utility companies urge caution in responding to power failures. This is important for your safety, and that of the power company personnel who are working in extreme conditions to restore your power.

Be prepared and know your electric bill account number and what service number to call to report an outage. Don't rely on a neighbor to report your problem since that person may have difficulty getting to the information. Also, your service may be on a different circuit than a neighbor's so don't assume your trouble has been reported.

Do not touch downed power lines. Don't try to knock the ice off of power lines. Don't cut trees or branches that may be in contact with a power line or power source. Wood and water conduct electricity so stay away.

Generators: Do not connect a generator to your main electricity panel. It may cause current to back-flow into the power grid and harm workers.

Here are some tips from power providers:
-Leave a light "on" so you know when power is restored.
-If using portable or camp-type stoves or lanterns for cooking and lighting, ensure that the area is adequately ventilated.
-Stay away from fallen wires, and debris. Treat all fallen wires and any trees or tree limbs in contact with wires as if they are energized.
-Follow safe operating procedures for generators. Never operate one inside your home, in crawl spaces or in an enclosed space, such as a garage.
-Do not hook portable generators directly to the electrical system of your home. Electricity could flow backward onto power lines and endanger lives. Either have a qualified electrician perform the work or plug directly into the generator with the proper-sized extension cords.
-Clear snow from around your home's heat pump so that air can circulate properly.
-Check for ice buildup within the exterior heat pump mechanism. Ice buildup can impede the proper functioning of the fan and may require technical service.

Stay Online if You Can

Sometimes the most advanced technology can remain operational in extreme conditions. Keep your cell phone charged. Keep a land line in service (these are self-powered). Other tips: Fiber optic service is often backed up with a battery so you can stay on-line for hours without power. Keep that laptop or netbook charged up. Have a UPS configured for your router and peripherals.

Stay safe. May the force be with you.

More Industry Headlines