JEA PREPARES FOR POSSIBLE WINTERSTORM

Press Release: December 22th, 2004

Jackson Energy Authority employees are in preparation for the possible winterstorm ahead.

“We have our crews ready and on stand-by just in case anything heads our way,” said Jim Ferrell, JEA Manager of Operations.

Ferrell added that distribution and service crews are preparing trucks, filling gas tanks, and checking that all necessary materials and supplies are readily available in case of an emergency.

During possible emergencies, extra employees, customer service
representatives, and other employees will be called to help for extra support. However, officials do want customers to be informed that JEA services are ALWAYS available – anytime of the day, any day of the year.

“We always prepare for the worse yet hope for the best,” Ferrell added.

JEA wants customers to know how to prepare themselves and their families for possible winter storms. These storms bring ice, snow, cold temperatures and often dangerous driving conditions. The steps below will help you become more prepared for upcoming winterstorms:

• Prepare a winterstorm plan - have extra blankets on hand & have a disaster supplies kit.
• Stay informed to current & changing weather conditions with EPlusTV Channel 6, weather radios, & other local forms of media.
• Walk slowly on snowy, icy sidewalks.
• When a winter storm WARNING is issued:
  • Stay indoors during the storm.
  • If you must go outside, several layers of clothing will keep you warmer than a single heavy coat. Gloves (or mittens) and a hat will prevent loss of body heat.
  • Understand the hazards of wind chill, which combines the cooling effect of wind and cold temperatures on exposed skin. As the wind increases, heat is carried away from a person's body at an accelerated rate, driving down the body temperature.
• Avoid traveling by car in a Winterstorm, however if you must go…
  • Have emergency supplies in the trunk
  • Remember that 70% of winter deaths related to ice/snow occur in automobiles
  • Keep you car's gas tank full for emergency use and to keep the fuel line from freezing.
  • Let someone know your destination, your route and when you expect to arrive.
• If you do get stuck while driving in the snow…
  • Stay with your car. Do not try to walk to safety.
  • Tie a brightly colored cloth (preferably red) to the antenna for rescuers to see.
  • Start the car and use the heater for about 10 minutes every hour. Keep the exhaust pipe clear so fumes won't back up into the car.