At PIEG we work every day to ensure reliable service to you and your family. Sometimes Mother Nature has a different idea.

Windstorms can be strong enough to knock down power lines and electrical poles. Even though our crews work hard to restore power and keep you safe, your electricity may be interrupted for extended periods of time.

To be ready if a storm hits your area, here are some tips to get you through an outage safely.

BEFORE A STORM Have a portable radio and flashlights handy; keep a list of emergency number near the phone; and know the location of your electric circuit box and how to turn the power on and off.

DURING A SEVERE STORM Don't use the phone, unless it's an emergency. Lightening is a form of electricity and can travel through the phone wires into your body; seek safe shelter-if none is available, lie in a ravine or drop to your knees and curl your head forward with your hands over the back of your head.

IF AN OUTAGE OCCURS Before calling us, check to see if you have a blown fuse or a tripped circuit breaker; if the power is out in your area, watch for fallen wires, broken utility poles or tree limbs on a power line. Stay clear of power lines and anything a power line is touching.

CALL 1-800-423-6634 TO REPORT YOUR OUTAGE OR TO RECEIVE RESTORATION INFORMATION.