Stay Safe

• Don't light candles; they could start a fire.
• Don't use a gas cooking range for emergency heating; it could build up deadly carbon monoxide fumes.
• Turn off or unplug electronic equipment and appliances.
• Always use a metal screen over fireplace openings to catch flying sparks and clear the hearth of any materials. 

Keep Snow and Ice Clear

• During winter storms, always clear ice and snow from ventilation pipes for direct-vent furnaces and water heaters.

• Customers with electric heat pumps should clear snow and ice away from their units so that it can function properly.
• Keep dryer vents clear of ice and snow.
• In addition, use a broom or brush to remove ice and snow from outside meters and attached equipment to keep them from potentially malfunctioning or interfering with service.

Use Generators Properly

• Carefully follow the manufacturer's instructions when using your generator.
• To avoid carbon monoxide poisoning, never use a generator inside your home or in an attached garage. Generators should only be used outside in well-ventilated, dry areas, away from air intakes into the home.
• If your generator needs to be wired directly into your home's electrical system, use a licensed electrician for the work.
• If your generator is connected directly to your home's electrical system, please turn off the main circuit breaker to avoid potential injury to crews working to restore power.