JPS Disaster Centre

HURRICANE TIPS

BEFORE THE HURRICANE:

  • Contact JPS early in the season for advice when trimming or removing trees close to power lines.
  • Trim trees and hedges, and remove danger trees that could fall on JPS lines during strong winds.
  • Have a licensed electrician check the service wire connection to your premises to make sure it can withstand hurricane winds.
  • Stock up on battery-powered flashlights and batteries in case of power outages.
  • Stock up on water, food supplies, and any medication needed by your family.
  • Make sure family members know where the circuit breaker is located in case you need to turn off the power.
  • If you are installing a stand-by generator, get a trained expert for the job. Only a licensed electrician should attempt to connect a stand-by generator to the main electric panel of a home or business. A special switch is needed to ensure that the power from the generator does not "back feed" into JPS lines and injure customers or JPS crews working to restore service.
  • If someone in your home depends on life-support equipment, and you do not have a stand-by generator, consider moving the individual to a special facility to avoid the effects of an extended power outage.
  • When a hurricane threatens, turn your refrigerators and freezers to their coldest settings – this will ensure that the food lasts longer in the event of a power outage.

DURING THE HURRICANE:

  • Do not go outdoors – you could be hit by flying debris or broken glass.
  • If you must use candles, do not leave them unattended - keep them in safe holders and away from flammable material like curtains, paper and wood.
  • In case of heavy winds and severe lightning, turn off and unplug electrical equipment, especially sensitive electronics.
  • Monitor the media for updates on the hurricane.

AFTER THE HURRICANE:

  • Do not go sightseeing – you could get hurt by flying debris.
  • Never touch a fallen power line or try to move it yourself. If the line is still energized, you could be electrocuted.
  • If you had to evacuate your home, when you return check for electrical damage, such as frayed wires, sparks, the smell of hot or burned insulation, or disconnected service wires. If you find such damage, do not turn your power on until your house is checked by an electrician.
  • Get a certified electrician to repair electrical damage to your premises.
  • Monitor the media for updates on hurricane restoration.
  • Report emergencies to JPS at 1-888-CALL JPS (225-5577).