EEI and its member companies urge customers to be prepared should a storm or natural disaster strike. Hurricane and wildfire seasons are in full swing, and flash flood events, tornadoes, and other potential threats can occur throughout the year. Prepare now to ensure you and your family can stay safe and be ready for power outages should they occur.

Take these steps to make sure you and your family are ready for storms:

• Review EEI's hurricane safety tips, wildfire safety tips, flood safety tips, and tornado 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. Stock up on non-perishable food, water, medications, and any other necessities to avoid the need for travel during a storm.
• Know all evacuation routes. If you or anyone you know has 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.
• 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.