WASHINGTON (May 29, 2024) — With meteorologists predicting active hurricane and wildfire seasons this year, the Edison Electric Institute (EEI) and our member companies remind customers that now is the time to prepare for extreme weather events and other emergencies that could cause power outages. Proactively taking simple steps to get ready now can be greatly beneficial if, and when, an emergency occurs.

“Forecasters are predicting high wildfire risk and one of the most active Atlantic hurricane seasons on record, with 17 to 25 major named storms expected,” said EEI Senior Vice President of Security and Preparedness Scott Aaronson. “EEI and our member companies are preparing and working closely with our industry and government partners on mitigation, preparation, and response plans. While electric companies work hard to limit outages and to respond quickly when they occur, we urge customers to make their own plans and to prepare now should extended power outages occur.”

A hallmark of the electric power industry is mutual assistance. In advance of major storms and following other extreme weather events and natural disasters that strike without notice, electric companies work together to identify potential resource needs and to line up additional personnel, equipment, and supplies that may be needed to support power restoration. This careful preparation allows for safe entry and a rapid, organized response in the affected areas.

“Following natural disasters, lineworkers and crews from across the United States and Canada come together to restore power to impacted communities,” Aaronson added. “While we understand that customers may want to ask questions or show their appreciation to crews during emergency power restorations, it is critical that they keep a safe distance from lineworkers and other mission-essential employees during all response efforts.”

Visit EEI’s new webpage, Wildfire Mitigation and Liability, to learn more about wildfire mitigation efforts being undertaken by EEI member companies, their objectives to address wildfire risk and liability, and how they are advancing strategies to enhance industry-government collaboration on wildfires.

Here are tips and resources to help you prepare your emergency plan and emergency outage kit:

• Visit www.ready.gov to learn how to plan, be prepared, and act in your community.
• Review EEI’s hurricane safety tips and wildfire safety tips. For more hurricane safety and preparation tips, visit the National Hurricane Survival Initiative. For more wildfire safety tips, visit www.ready.gov/wildfires.
• Develop an emergency plan that addresses any special medical needs you or your family members have. Call your local emergency management office to discuss necessary arrangements.
• Have your emergency outage kit stocked and readily available.
• Know all evacuation routes. If you or anyone you know has special needs that may complicate an evacuation, contact your local emergency management office for guidance. Find the phone number at www.FEMA.gov.
• Pay attention to local weather reports on the radio, television, and online.
• Stock up on non-perishable food, water, medications, and any other necessities to avoid the need for travel during a storm.
• Learn what to do in case of a power outage.
• Make sure your contact information is current with your local electric company so you can receive any status or safety updates the company might put out during an emergency. Be sure to follow your electric company on social media for real-time updates.