Tips for Staying Safe During Winter Storms

Tips for Staying Safe During Winter Storms

Using a sophisticated weather network, our team of in-house meteorologists based in Kearny Mesa are monitoring the coming winter storm – expected to hit our area Thursday through Friday, with the heaviest rainfall anticipated tomorrow.

Armed with the latest weather information, our crews will be working to prevent storm-related service interruptions, but it’s important for you to be prepared and use caution.

Drive Safe

When roads are wet and slippery, chances of getting into a vehicle accident are higher. Be extra vigilant and slow down. Don’t let yourself be the driver whose car hits a power pole or transformer, knocking out power for yourself and your neighbors.

What to Do If There’s a Power Outage

While rainstorms and power outages don’t always happen hand in hand, it’s always good to familiarize yourself with these safety tips, just in case:

  • Use a flashlight—instead of candles—for light, as candles can be fire hazards
  • If using a standby generator, follow these safety tips
  • Turn off major appliances like dishwashers or televisions that were running when the power went out to prevent them from starting unexpectedly when power is restored
  • Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed to keep food fresh
  • Leave one light on so you know when power is restored

Secure Loose Items in Your Yard

Make it a habit to secure loose items in your yard before a rainstorm because: 1) you don’t want belongings to be damaged by water; and 2) one of the most common causes of outages during storms is flying debris, such as tarps and pool covers getting tangled up with power lines.

Power Line Safety Reminder

Fallen electric lines are extremely dangerous. If a person or piece of equipment comes in contact with an electric line, or if a line is down, remember the following:

  • Call 911 and SDG&E at 800-411-SDGE (7343) to report the incident
  • Always assume that power lines are energized and dangerous.
  • If a person or animal has come into contact with a power line, do not touch them or any equipment involved—the line may still be energized.

Free Sandbags to Prevent Erosion and Mudslides

For those impacted by the Lilac Fire in the Valley Center area, San Diego County and CAL FIRE are offering free sandbags and other materials to help prevent erosion and mudslides.

Remember to check our online outage map or mobile app for the latest outage information.

If you want to follow the latest forecast of rain, wind, and temperature by community, visit SDGEweather.com.