Alabama Power is monitoring developments related to Tropical Storm Karen, which could affect the Alabama gulf coast this weekend. At 9 a.m. Friday, Oct. 4, a hurricane watch from the National Weather Service was in effect from Grand Isle, La., to west of Destin, Fla. We are paying close attention to the storm’s track and will provide updates related to Alabama Power operations as necessary.

HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS TIPS

Alabama Power employees take severe weather seriously, and customers should, too. Here’s what you can do to be better prepared for summer storms and their potential aftermath:

Before the storm

1. Charge cell phones, pagers and other electronic devices.
2. Have several flashlights with extra batteries on hand, as well as a first-aid kit.
3. Keep a three-day minimum supply of water – one gallon per person per day, plus three days’ supply of food and drink that does not have to be refrigerated.
4. Use a battery-operated weather radio or cell phone weather app to stay informed.
5. Turn down the thermostat to cool your house. If you keep doors and windows closed after the storm, you can keep your house relatively cool for about 48 hours.
6. Seek shelter inside a sturdy building. In the event of a tornado, the safest place is on the lowest level. Choose a small room with no windows, such as an interior closet, hallway or bathroom.

After the storm

1. If power is out, call Alabama Power’s automated reporting system at 1-800-888-APCO (2726). It is the fastest way to report an outage or a hazardous situation, such as a downed power line.
2. Turn off appliances to avoid any potential safety hazards when power is restored.
3. Stay away from downed lines. Do not drive over lines or under low-hanging lines. Keep children and pets away from downed lines. Do not attempt to remove tree limbs or anything else caught in power lines. Call Alabama Power at 1-800-888-APCO (2726) or contact a local law enforcement agency if downed lines are spotted.
4. Stay clear of areas with fallen trees or debris where downed lines may be hidden. Stay away from areas where repair crews are working.

GENERATOR SAFETY TIPS

More and more people are purchasing portable generators to keep appliances running during outages. While generators can be a convenience, they can also be deadly when used improperly.

1. Read and follow carefully the manufacturer’s instructions before using a generator.
2. Do not plug in portable generators to your household wiring. This can cause serious injury to you and to Alabama Power employees working on the lines in your neighborhood. Connect only essential appliances – such as freezers and refrigerators – directly to the generator.
3. To avoid carbon monoxide poisoning, operate generators outdoors in a well-ventilated, dry area that is away from air intakes to the home, including window air conditioners. Never use a portable generator indoors or in attached garages.