The National Weather Service predicts a snowstorm will hit the region Friday, Feb. 5 and continue through Saturday, Feb. 6, bringing heavy, wet snow and high winds to the area.
Delmarva Power warns that this severe weather has the potential to cause power outages. The utility’s crews are on alert to restore service as quickly and as safely as possible.
Delmarva Power encourages customers to report outages and gas emergencies to the company as soon as possible.
Additionally, the utility offers the following tips to help customers prepare and stay safe:
Never touch a downed or damaged power line; do not attempt to move downed or damaged power lines with branches, boards, etc.
Clear snow away from appliance intake and exhaust vents to maintain proper airflow and ventilation; blowing and drifting snow can clog such vents and create a hazard
Keep a storm survival kit ready with drinking water, non-perishable foods, a battery-powered radio, flashlight and fresh batteries
Customers who need electric-powered life-support equipment should have a back-up power source or an evacuation plan, and relatives or friends who care for someone who is elderly or infirm should check to make sure back-up plans are in place
Before beginning snow removal, carefully clear accumulated snow from gas and electric facilities, propane and oil tank storage areas, and other phone, cable or utility facilities, fire hydrants and fire-fighting equipment
Do not connect portable electric generators to household wiring without properly isolating the home’s electrical system from the local power system
Operate generators according to the operator’s manual; do not run them in basements, garages, car ports, near open windows or other areas where exhaust can accumulate
To aid in restoration, turn off major appliances, such as washing machines, ovens and stoves
To help prevent food spoilage, avoid opening refrigerator and freezer doors during an outage
Drivers should slow down, keep a safe distance between vehicles, keep their focus on the road and not be distracted while they are behind the wheel
Walkers should be aware of – and be cautious around – icy sidewalks, particularly around stairs, curbs and busy lobbies
To avoid or minimize back problems or the chance of heart attack, individuals shoveling snow should pace themselves, take frequent breaks, avoid excessively heavy lifting and exercise proper bending and lifting techniques
If you go outside, wear a heavy coat, a hat and gloves to minimize the chance of frostbite
If you experience an outage or see a downed or damaged power line, call 1-800-898-8042 in New Castle County and 1-800-898-8045 in Kent and Sussex counties.
In Cecil and Harford counties in Maryland, call 1-800-898-8042. In the Eastern Shore, call 1-800-898-8045.
To report a Delmarva natural gas emergency in New Castle County, call 302-454-0317.
