WASHINGTON (May 06, 2025) — With forecasters predicting another active hurricane and wildfire season, the Edison Electric Institute (EEI) and our member electric companies remind customers that taking simple, proactive measures today can make a significant difference in staying safe and being ready should an emergency occur.

“With increasingly frequent and intense extreme weather events, it is more important than ever for customers to prepare for emergencies and potential power disruptions,” said Scott Aaronson, EEI Senior Vice President for Energy Security and Industry Operations. “At the same time, EEI and our member companies will continue to work hand-in-hand with industry partners, government agencies, and the communities we serve to enhance our mitigation, preparation, and response efforts as this year’s hurricane and wildfire seasons approach.”

Mutual assistance is a hallmark of the electric power industry. 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 required to support power restoration. This careful preparation allows for safe entry and a rapid, organized response in affected areas.

“Lineworkers and other restoration crews are essential to power restoration and recovery in the aftermath of storms, wildfires, and other natural disasters,” Aaronson continued. “We all have a responsibility to drive slowly and with extreme caution to ensure that crews can work efficiently and safely, and, whenever possible, please be sure to move over a lane to provide these essential workers with extra space.”

Here’s what you need to know to prepare your emergency plans and outage kits:

• 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 others you know have 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.

If you would like to learn more about the actions EEI’s member companies are taking to prevent wildfires and protect customers and communities, visit EEI’s website.