March is Severe Weather Preparedness Month. Are you ready?

It’s hard to believe March is already here. And as the temperatures rise, so too does the risk for severe weather such as thunderstorms, hail, lightning, heavy rain and more. While we’re always investing in our electric system to continue to improve reliability for you and better defend against Mother Nature (learn more), you can also take steps to stay safe when a spring storm hits.

First off, always have an emergency kit ready, including:

• Water and nonperishable food.
• Flashlights.
• A battery-operated weather radio. (We recommend a NOAA Weather Radio, which allows you to receive weather warnings.)
• Extra batteries.
• An up-to-date first-aid kit, including any required prescription medications.

Additional severe weather safety tips include:

• Never use corded phones during lightning and thunderstorms.
• Never take baths or showers during lightning and thunderstorms.
• If you do lose power, turn off appliances but leave a light switch on. This way, you’ll know when power is restored.
• Have a safe place to go for extended power outages.
• Keep at least half a tank of gas in your car.
• ALWAYS avoid downed power lines. If you see one, call our automated phone system.

Visit www.weather.gov for more safety information.