The recent rain and wind event that impacted Southern California a couple of weeks ago toppled several trees in our City, damaged Edison electrical lines, and disrupted several traffic signals. It was a reminder for all of us to jump start our emergency preparedness.  Edison has made it much easier for all of us to communicate.  In addition to the online Outage Center at www.sce.com, a web-enabled mobile phone can be used to easily report and check on the status of power outages.  You can visit www.sce.com to download the iphone or android app or call 800.611.1911.

Do you know what to do before, during and after a power outage? Safety always comes first during an outage. Here are several suggestions from your San Gabriel Fire Department.

• Have flashlights readily available throughout your work and home.
• Use surge protectors with electronic equipment, such as computers. Make certain to frequently back-up important work and files.
• Learn how to open automatic doors/gates manually (without power).
• When your power supply is out or will be out for a maintenance outage, notify any security companies that monitor your work or home.
• Using a back-up source of power can keep your home powered or business up and running during an outage, but generators can be dangerous if they are not properly connected or operated. Permanent, stationary generators installed by a qualified, licensed electrician are best suited for providing back-up power to a business.
• Elevators will automatically stop when the power goes out. However, there is no cause for alarm. Notify emergency personnel and wait for help. Never try to exit or help others exit through partially opened doors or a ceiling service door. Wait for trained emergency personnel to arrive. Even though it may get warm inside the elevator, there will be plenty of air circulating.
• Check perishable food after an outage. Depending on the length of the outage and temperature, food may not be safe to consume. Perishable foods should not be held above 40 degrees Fahrenheit for more than two hours.
• If you see a downed power line, call 911.  Do not approach or touch it!