Spring and summer storm safety tips

Apr 4, 2019, 14:39 PM

In Alberta, thunderstorm season begins in May and lasts until mid-October. If a thunderstorm is imminent, there are several precautions you can take to protect you and your property:

• If you know a storm is coming, it's best to unplug electronics and stay indoors away from anything that conducts electricity
• Seek shelter in low-lying areas but look out for flooding
• Stay away from bodies of water including pools and puddles
• You're safe in a car, but don't park under trees or power lines
• Stay away from anything metal like fences, tractors or golf carts
• Disconnect electronics and electrical appliances including radios and television sets
• Stay away from tall objects and high elevations like trees, hilltops and poles

Power outage tips for storm season:

• Download our mobile app to view and report outages
• Sign up for power outage alerts to get updates
• Use surge protectors for valuable electronics
• Know the location of your main breaker so you can restore power if the problem is your breaker
• Have an Emergency Kit on hand
• Switch your mobile phone to battery saving mode and have a portable power bank
• Register for Alberta Emergency Alerts
• Know how to manually open or close your garage door or bypass your garage door opener
• Consider installing a generator to provide power for must-run operations, especially on a farm
• If you see a downed power line, stay 10 metres safe and call 310-WIRE (9473)