Emergencies
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      What to do in an electrical/power emergency.

      Some simple steps to handle a fire-related emergency.

      Electrical emergencies can be frightening and potentially life-threatening situations that require immediate attention and a level-headed response. As a tenant, knowing how to handle such emergencies can significantly reduce risks and ensure your safety. In this article, we will discuss what tenants can do during electrical emergencies, including downed powerlines, live electric wires, and power outages.

      • Downed Powerlines

      Encountering a downed powerline is a hazardous situation and should be treated with extreme caution. Follow these steps if you come across a downed powerline.

      1. Stay Away:
        1. Maintain a safe distance of at least 30 feet from the powerline. Electricity can arc and travel through the ground, so avoid any contact with the area.
      2. Report the Situation:
        1. Call the local utility company or emergency services immediately to report the downed powerline. Provide them with the exact location and any other pertinent details.
      3. Warn Others:
        1. If possible, warn others in the vicinity about the danger to prevent accidents.
      4. Do Not Touch Anything:
        1. Never attempt to move or touch the powerline or any objects that are in contact with it, such as trees or vehicles.
      5. Submit a work order and notify your property management company.

      • Live Electric Wires

      Encountering live electric wires is similarly dangerous and requires immediate attention. Follow these steps to handle the situation safely:

      1. Stay Clear:
        1. Keep a significant distance from the live wires to avoid electrocution. Remember that electricity can travel through conductive materials, so maintain a safe distance.
      2. Call for Help:
        1. Contact emergency services and the utility company to report the live wires. Provide them with precise details about the location and the hazard.
      3. Isolate the Area:
        1. If possible, prevent others from entering the area by using barricades, cones, or warning signs.
      4. Avoid Contact:
        1. Under no circumstances should you attempt to touch, move, or handle live wires or any objects in contact with them.
      5. Submit a work order and notify your property management company.

      • Power Outages

      Power outages can occur for various reasons, such as storms, equipment failures, or grid overloads. Here's what you can do during a power outage:

      1. Check for Widespread Outages:

        1. First, determine if the power outage is isolated to your property or if it is widespread. Check with neighbors to confirm if they are experiencing the same issue.

      2. Report the Outage:

        1. Contact your utility company to report the power outage. They can provide you with updates on the situation and an estimated time for power restoration.

        2. Verify that all utility bills have been paid and service is active. 

      3. Unplug Appliances:

        1. To prevent damage from power surges when electricity is restored, unplug major appliances and electronics during the outage.

      4. Use Flashlights:

        1. Instead of using candles, which pose a fire hazard, rely on battery-powered flashlights for illumination.

      5. Stay Informed:

        1. Tune in to battery-operated radios or use your smartphone to stay informed about the situation and any safety instructions from authorities.

      6. If the issue is not related to a utility outage: Submit a work order and notify your property management company.

      • Trees Falling on Powerlines 

      Trees falling on powerlines can create hazardous situations, posing risks to tenants and the surrounding community. Dealing with this type of emergency requires specific precautions and actions. Here's what tenants should do if a tree falls on a powerline:

      1. Safety First:
        1. Your safety is paramount. Keep a considerable distance (at least 30 feet) from the fallen tree and any wires it may have brought down with it.
      2. Check for Hazards:
        1. Look for signs of arcing or sparking, which could indicate that the powerline is still energized. Listen for any unusual sounds, such as buzzing or crackling, which may suggest live wires.
      3. Stay Clear of the Tree:
        1. Avoid touching the tree or any objects in contact with it, as they could be energized. Do not attempt to move the tree or any debris yourself.
      4. Report the Incident:
        1. Call Emergency Services: Immediately dial the local emergency number to report the fallen tree and downed powerline. Provide them with your exact location and a clear description of the situation.
        2. Notify the Utility Company: Contact your utility company's emergency hotline to inform them about the tree on the powerline. They will prioritize fixing the issue and make the area safe.
      5. Warn Others and Isolate the Area:
        1. Warn Neighbors and Bystanders: If you can do so safely, alert people in the vicinity about the fallen tree and the potential electrical hazard. Advise them to stay away from the area.
        2. Use Caution Measures: Set up temporary barriers, such as cones, caution tape, or warning signs, to prevent people from approaching the hazardous zone until professionals arrive.
      6. Power Outage and Additional Precautions:
        1. Expect Power Outages: The tree falling on the powerline may cause a power outage in your area. Be prepared for extended periods without electricity until the utility company resolves the issue.
        2. Unplug Appliances: To safeguard your appliances and electronics from power surges when power is restored, unplug them during the outage.
        3.  Avoid Using Generators: Do not use portable generators indoors or near open windows, as they can produce carbon monoxide, a deadly gas. Follow all safety guidelines when using generators outdoors.
      7. Await Professional Assistance:
        1. Stay Informed: Listen to battery-operated radios or check your smartphone for updates on the situation and safety instructions from local authorities and utility providers.
        2. Cooperate with Utility Crews: Once utility crews arrive to assess and repair the damage, follow their instructions and cooperate with them to ensure a swift and safe resolution.
      8. If the issue is not fully resolved at this point: Submit a work order and notify your property management company.