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Magic Valley EC News

Prepare for Summer Storms

Use these steps to stay prepared

The summer months ahead make conditions right for dangerous storms, and hurricane season kicks off June 1. These weather events can cause destruction to Magic Valley Electric Cooperative’s system, but co-op crews are standing by to respond should power outages occur. When major storms knock out power, line crews take all necessary precautions before they get to work on any downed lines. You should also practice safety and preparedness to protect your family during major storms and outages.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency recommends preparing for storms and other disasters with these basic steps:

  • Stock your pantry with a three-day supply of nonperishable food, such as canned goods, energy bars, peanut butter, powdered milk, instant coffee, water, and other essentials like diapers and toiletries.
  • Confirm that you have adequate sanitation and hygiene supplies, including towelettes, soap and hand sanitizer.
  • Ensure your first-aid kit is stocked with pain relievers, bandages and other medical essentials, and make sure your prescriptions are current.
  • Set aside basic household items you will need, including flashlights, batteries, a manual can opener, and a battery- powered radio or TV.
  • Organize emergency supplies so they are easily accessible in one location.
  • In the event of a prolonged power outage, turn off major appliances, TVs, computers and other sensitive electronics. This will help avert damage from a power surge and will also help prevent overloading the circuits during power restoration. Leave one light on so you will know when power is restored.
  • If you plan to use a small generator, make sure it’s rated to handle the amount of power you will need, and always review the manufacturer’s instructions to operate it safely.
  • Listen to local news or a weather radio for storm and emergency information, and follow MVEC’s social media accounts for power restoration updates.
  • After the storm, avoid downed power lines and walking through flooded areas where power lines could be submerged. Allow ample room for utility crews to safely perform their jobs, including on your property.

Planning for severe storms or other emergencies can reduce stress and anxiety caused by the weather event and can lessen the impact of the storm.