Summer storm safety

Intense summer storms can be beautiful to watch, yet have the potential to be very destructive. They can arise quickly, and lightning strikes, booming thunder, and torrential rain are powerful forces that, when coming in contact with utility infrastructure, can lead to power outages and damage to equipment.

Head indoors at the first sign of lightning and invest in a surge protection device for your home electronics. Here are some lightning safety tips to keep you and your family safe:

• Stay off corded phones, computers and other electrical equipment that put you in direct contact with electricity.

• Avoid plumbing, including sinks, baths, and faucets.

• Stay away from windows and doors and stay off porches.

• Immediately get off elevated areas.

• Never lie flat on the ground.

• Never shelter under an isolated tree.

• Immediately get out of and away from bodies of water.

Backup generators are great during power outages, but please be sure a licensed professional installed it through a transfer switch. Improperly wired generators can result in electricity backfeeding onto power lines, which can be incredibly dangerous for co-op lineworkers and those inside your home. Never operate a generator indoors or in confined spaces.

A good tip to remember: Keep fridges and freezers closed as much as possible during a power outage. An unopened refrigerator will safely keep food cold for about four hours; a full freezer will do so for about 48 hours.

For more information about how to protect your home electronics and appliances, visit CassCountyElectric.com.