DUTCH FLAT, Calif. — With a blizzard on the way to the Sierra foothills and mountain communities, PG&E said its crews are ready to respond to expected power outages.
"When things hit the fan, it's really difficult here," said Dutch Flat resident Ford Bechtle.
Peaceful towns like Dutch Flat are right in the path of the major winter storm, which is expected to bring high winds and heavy snow.
Bechtle said the power goes out just about every winter. The next 24 hours are a critical time for him and his neighbors to prepare.
"Just making sure you've got the propane tanks lined up and that you've ensured that you're ready to hunker down," Bechtle said.
PG&E spokesperson Paul Moreno said to expect a lot of tree-caused power outages.
"Trees will get loaded up with snow and may topple over or branches may break off," said Moreno, adding that crews have been pruning and removing hazardous trees.
"We do urge people to be prepared to be without power for a period of time," Moreno said.
PG&E issued the following safety tips.
Never touch downed wires: If you see a downed power line, assume it is energized and extremely dangerous. Do not touch or try to move it—and keep children and animals away. Report downed power lines immediately by calling 9-1-1 and then PG&E at 1-800-743-5002.
Use generators safely: Customers with standby electric generators should ensure they are properly installed by a licensed electrician in a well-ventilated area. Improperly installed generators pose a significant danger to customers, as well as crews working on powerlines. If using portable generators, be sure they are in a well-ventilated area.
Use flashlights, not candles: During a power outage, use battery-operated flashlights and not candles, due to the risk of fire. And keep extra batteries on hand. If you must use candles, please keep them away from drapes, lampshades, animals and small children. Do not leave candles unattended.
Have a backup phone: If you have a telephone system that requires electricity to work, such as a cordless phone or answering machine, plan to have a standard telephone or cellular phone ready as a backup. Having a portable charging device helps to keep your cell phone running.
Have fresh drinking water and ice: Freeze plastic containers filled with water to make blocks of ice that can be placed in your refrigerator/freezer to prevent food spoilage.
Secure your outside furniture: Strong winds can blow lawn chairs and other outdoor items into powerlines.
Turn off appliances: If you experience an outage, unplug or turn off all electrical appliances to avoid overloading circuits and to prevent fire hazards when power is restored. Simply leave a single lamp on to alert you when power returns.
Safely clean up: After the storm has passed, be sure to safely clean up. Never touch downed wires and always call 8-1-1 or visit 811express.com at least two full business days before digging to have all underground utilities safely marked.
WATCH ALSO:
