CLEVELAND – High winds, mechanical failures, and traffic accidents as a result of severe storms can lead to downed power lines and power outages. In an effort to keep residents and customers informed, Cleveland Public Power offers the following tips for storm safety as we prepare for forecasted high winds:
Downed power lines – Never touch, move or go near any downed or hanging lines. The first action should be to call 9-1-1 or your local utility. CPP’s Trouble Line can be reached by calling 216-664-3156.
- Do not put your feet in water where a downed line is laying
- Do not try to move tree limbs
- If you see someone who has come into contact with a downed line, do not touch them, again call 9-1-1
- If a line comes down on your car stay inside, roll down your window, and warn others to stay away. Call authorities or ask a passerby to call authorities. The only time you should exit a vehicle with a downed line on it is if it has caught fire. If the vehicle is on fire, open the door and jump with both feet together to avoid contact with the car. It is metal and therefore you could receive a shock.
Power outage and food safety – Unless there is a major outage extending more than 4 hours, your food should be safe in the refrigerator as long as you leave the doors closed. After that point, you may want to begin to prepare and/or eat the food.
- Food in the freezer will hold much longer. According to the USDA, “a full freezer will hold the temperature for approximately 48 hours (24 hours if it is half full) if the door remains closed.”
- If it appears the outage will last for a prolonged period of time, the USDA advises buying dry ice or block ice to keep the refrigerator cold. The USDA reports “fifty pounds of dry ice should hold an 18-cubic foot full freezer for 2 days.”
In-Home Tips – unplug and avoid using major electric appliances and avoid using landline telephones. You should also avoid using the telephone because in the event of a lightning strike these lines and other wires can conduct electricity.
In the event of widespread outages, customers will also be able to follow @clepublicpower on Twitter for updates.