Storm surges or tides, heavy rainfall, high winds, rip currents, and tornadoes are some of the hazards hurricanes can unleash. Hurricane season began June 1 and continues through the end of November, and predictions forecast a dozen named storms from the Atlantic Ocean this year.
Bandera Electric Cooperative encourages members to practice safety with these reminders during and after a hurricane or severe summer storm.
Avoid wires and water. When lightning strikes a building during a storm, the electrical charge can surge through pipes and utility wires. That means you can get zapped if you’re touching water or any device that’s plugged in, whether it’s a landline phone or a toaster. High winds can blow power lines loose from their poles. Never get near or touch a downed power line.
Take special care with portable generators. These devices can provide a good source of alternate power, but if improperly installed or operated, they can become deadly. Do not connect generators directly to household wiring. Power from generators can back-feed along power lines and electrocute anyone who comes into contact with them, including co-op lineworkers making repairs. It’s best to hire a qualified, licensed electrician to install your generator and ensure that it meets electrical codes.
Avoid standing or walking through flooded areas. Power lines could be submerged and still be live with electricity.
With any luck, we won’t need to enact these precautions. If you have questions about storm preparedness or you need to report outages or downed lines, call BEC at (866) 226-3372.