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Hawaiian Electric Co. said its customer service offices on Oahu will be closed on Friday to allow employees to focus on responding to any impacts from Hurricane Iselle.
The utility said customers should call 1-855-304-1212 to report power outages and downed power lines.
Hawaiian Electric said customers should consider the following safety measures before, during and after a disaster or power outage:
Before a storm hits or if there is a power outage, unplug all unnecessary electric equipment and appliances until the storm has passed or until power is restored.
Should you need to evacuate, take emergency supplies and remember to shut off electricity at the main breaker or switch.
Make plans in advance to go to a safe location where electricity will be available if someone in your home depends on an electrically powered life support system and you don’t have a backup generator.
Some shelters are designed for people with health needs–just remember to take your own medical equipment and medications.
When using a portable generator, carefully read and follow instructions in the manufacturer’s manual. Do not plug the generator into your household electrical outlets. Never use a generator inside a home, basement, or garage. Only use the generator outside, away from your home’s windows, doors, and vents.
If you have a rooftop PV system, consult with your licensed solar contractor regarding normal and emergency operation procedures for your solar system. As a safety precaution, most PV systems are designed to safely shut down during outages. PV systems typically have monitoring systems that allow owners to check on the status of their system. The Hawaii Solar Energy Association has posted PV safety tips on their website at www.hsea.org.
Stay away from downed power lines. Assume they are energized, or “live,” and dangerous. If you see someone injured after touching a downed power line, call 9-1-1 for help.
If you become trapped in an elevator during a power outage, relax and stay calm until help arrives. Use elevator emergency communication systems to report where you are and who is with you. Do not try to force open elevator doors. Never try to exit a stalled elevator car. Always wait for trained and qualified emergency personnel.
