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 Those who have experienced Arizona’s Monsoon season know that nature can be an unpredictable and destructive force. APS offers tips for braving the elements and coping with possible summer outages.
Here is how you can prepare for Monsoon season outages:
- First check fuses or circuit box to determine if the outage is isolated to your location.
- Unplug or turn off all major appliances, such as air-conditioning and dishwashers to avoid a power surge when the electricity comes back on.
- Unplug voltage-sensitive appliances such as home computers and other electronic equipment to prevent damage to your appliances. Use surge suppressors to help protect electronic equipment.
- Leave on a few lights so you can tell when the electricity has been restored.
- Keep refrigerators or freezer doors closed. If the refrigerator gets above 40 degrees or the food is warm do not consume it.
- Food in a filled freezer will stay frozen for two days, and in a half-full freezer one day. Also keep in mind that pork, poultry, fish, and hamburger will go bad if the temperature goes above 40 degrees.
- Once the electricity is restored, wait at least one minute before turning your appliances back on.
- If you decide to leave the house during an outage, make sure that all heat-producing appliances are unplugged and turned off.
Be prepared
One good way to be prepared for the Monsoon storms before they arrive is to have a few items set aside.
- Make sure to have several flashlights and a battery-operated radio in a spot that is easy to find.
- Store non-perishable foods such as cereals, canned fruits and breads.
Downed Power Lines
Always stay away from downed power lines; treat them as if they were energized. Never assume that a fallen wire is safe.
- The line could be energized, and it could energize the ground around it.
- Never try to remove someone trapped by a downed power line. When you see someone in need of help immediately call 911.
- If a power line hits your car when you're in it, stay in the vehicle. Try to attract help by blowing the horn and remain calmly in the vehicle until help arrives.
Lightning Safety
Lightning creates a magnetic field that radiates out and can be picked up by electrical wires, even if it doesn't actually strike your home. Nearby lightning strikes can cause electrical voltage fluctuations.
- Some manufacturers recommend that you unplug sensitive electronic equipment (TVs, VCRs, stereos, computers, etc.) that can be damaged by changes in voltage.
- Surge suppressers can provide full-time protection for sensitive electronic equipment, but they are not foolproof. Appliances, such as refrigerators and stoves, probably will be all right.
- During lightning storms, avoid taking a bath or shower or running water because metal pipes can conduct electricity. Also, stay off the telephone.
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