Southern California Edison Warns: Never Touch a Downed Power Line

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ROSEMEAD, Calif., Nov. 3, 2011 — With more wind and rain expected as winter approaches, Southern California Edison (SCE) reminds people to never touch a downed power line.

Storms can bring high winds, which may result in downed power lines. Never ever touch a downed line — even if it appears not to be energized. Call 911 to alert emergency personnel.

Customers have experienced wind-related outages this week. While power has been restored to most of those homes and businesses, SCE wants its customers to be ready in case there are further outages. SCE customers should call (800) 611-1911 to report an outage.

Customersafetyis a top priority for SCE. Here are important tips to keep in mind:

• Watch for traffic signals that may be out. Approach those intersections as four-way stops.
• Make sure you have a battery-operated radio and flashlights. Check the batteries to make sure they are fresh. Use flashlights for lighting during a power outage; do not use candles because they may pose a significant fire hazard.
• Do not use inside any equipment designed for outdoor heating or outdoor cooking. Such equipment can emit carbon monoxide and other toxic gases.
• If you use a generator, place it outdoors and plug individual appliances directly into the generator, using a heavy-duty extension cord. Connecting generators directly to household circuits creates “backfeed,” which is dangerous to repair crews.
• Leave the doors of your refrigerator and freezer closed to keep your food as fresh as possible. Place blocks of ice inside to help keep food cold. Check food carefully for signs of spoilage. 
• Check on your neighbors to make sure everyone is safe.

For more safety information, visitwww.sce.com/safety.

About Southern California Edison

An Edison International (NYSE:EIX) company, Southern California Edison is one of the nation’s largest electric utilities, serving a population of nearly 14 million via 4.9 million customer accounts in a 50,000-square-mile service area within Central, Coastal and Southern California.

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Southern California Edison Warns: Never Touch a Downed Power Line