Customers urged to proactively prepare for the Storm
YULEE, FL – Florida Public Utilities Company (FPUC) is monitoring the current projections of Hurricane Eta and preparing to respond around the clock as safely and quickly as possible in the event the Storm impacts FPUC’s service area. FPUC is prepared to adjust Company staffing to respond to any potential service interruptions that may result from the heavy rainfall and predicted 75 mph maximum sustained wind gusts from the Category 1 Storm.
Just as FPUC prepares, the Company is asking its customers to have emergency plans in place for their families. Customers should report service interruptions to FPUC at 1.800.427.7712 or on the web at www.FPUC.com/ReportOutage. For hurricane updates and additional safety information, please visit FPUC.com/prepare and follow FPU on Twitter and Facebook.
Should the Storm impact FPUC customers, the Company’s priority plan calls for initial service restoration to critical community infrastructure, such as public health and safety organizations. Restoration efforts will begin when conditions are safe to do so.
Safety is a priority at FPUC and customers are asked to proactively prepare for the Storm by having access to the following items:
- Flashlights
- New batteries
- Battery-operated clock radio
- Corded telephone
- Fully charged cell phone
- Non-perishable foods
- Water – one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days for drinking and sanitation
- First aid / emergency kit
- Local maps
- Blankets
FPUC urges customers to consider filling the fuel tanks of their vehicles in the event a power outage affects service to neighborhood gas stations. For customers who rely on well water, filling a bathtub with water in advance of severe weather is strongly encouraged. Customers using a generator should follow the manufacturer’s instructions and be sure to locate generators outside, in well-ventilated areas.
Customers with special needs, such as those who may be elderly, disabled or dependent upon electricity for medical equipment, should have alternate arrangements in place in the event they experience an extended power outage.
If you discover a downed electric wire or power line, assume it is energized and stay as far away as possible. Call 1.800.427.7712 immediately to report the location of the power line. Natural gas and propane customers should not turn off their gas supply at the meter. Only authorized utility or emergency personnel should turn your meter valve on or off. If you smell natural gas, get to a safe location and call 1.800.427.7712 or 911 immediately.
After the Storm, natural gas and propane customers should not operate any appliances believed to be damaged or flooded. Call FPUC to have a trained technician re-light your pilot lights and inspect your appliances to ensure they are in safe condition.
Customers are urged to consider the following safety tips in the event of flooding:
- Proceed with care if you have experienced flooding in your home.
- Do not enter a room with standing water, particularly if the water covers electrical outlets or electrical cords that are plugged into outlets.
- Confirm the electrical system is turned off before entering a flooded room or basement.
- Do not attempt to shut off your electrical system if you have to stand in water or on a wet floor to do so.
- If you experienced flooding, do not turn on any lights or appliances without having a comprehensive inspection performed by a licensed electrician and, also, by a registered plumber with a gasfitter’s license for gas appliances.
About Florida Public Utilities Company
Florida Public Utilities Company (FPUC) is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Chesapeake Utilities Corporation (NYSE: CPK). Headquartered in Yulee, Florida, FPUC distributes natural gas and propane and provides electric services to approximately 100,000 customers in markets throughout Florida. For more information, visit www.fpuc.com.
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For more information, contact:
Justin Mulcahy
Public Relations Manager
302.217.7050
[email protected]
