Keeping Safe in Stormy Weather

When a storm is headed your way, make sure you’re prepared. Keep up-to-date on the bad weather and about what the next three days will bring. Prepare for flooding by moving your valuables to upper floors, and always keep the fuel tank on your vehicles full.

During the Storm

• Don’t touch downed power lines or broken gas lines and report them immediately to the SDG&E, the police, or the fire department.

• If evacuating, disconnect all electrical appliances and turn off electricity at the panel, gas service at the meter and water at the main valve.

• Stay informed of the weather conditions.

• Avoid low-lying areas that might flood.

• Do not attempt to cross swift-moving water that is above your knees.

• If your vehicle stalls in the water, abandon it immediately. Two feet of water is enough to carry away most automobiles.

• Restrict telephone use.

• Prepare an evacuation kit that includes personal hygiene items, clothes, bedding and medication.

• Check on your neighbors, especially the elderly and disabled, if it’s safe to do so.

• Dial 911 only if you have a life-threatening emergency.

• Avoid making unnecessary trips. If you must go out, dress in warm, loose layers with sturdy shoes and let others know where you are going.

• Keep children safe and away from high water, storm drains, or viaducts.

After the Storm

• Don’t touch downed power lines or broken gas lines and report them immediately to the SDG&E, the police, or the fire department.

• Contact SDG&E or a licensed professional to relight your appliances and pilot lights. Don’t try to turn your gas back on yourself.

• Don’t use electrical equipment in wet areas.

• Don’t use flames. Use flashlights, not lanterns, matches, or candles.

• Avoid making unnecessary trips. If you must go out, dress in warm, loose layers with sturdy shoes and let others know where you’re going.

• Discard contaminated food.

• Boil or purify drinking water.

• Stay informed of the weather conditions and relief efforts.