Time to Prepare for Spring and Summer!

As the weather changes from winter's cold to spring and summer, it's time to get prepared.

• Change the filters in your heating system.

• When raking the yard, remember to remove all grass and weeds from around your outside heating/cooling unit.

• Call N. C. One Call at 1-800-632-4949 before you dig so that underground utility lines (electrical, phone, gas, cable, etc.) may be located for you.

• Don't plant trees under/near overhead power lines.

• Don't plant shrubs near underground transformers.

WAYS TO CONSERVE ELECTRICITY!

• Turn off unnecessary lights.

• Use compact florescent bulbs.

• Turn off stereos, VCR/DVD players when not in use.

• Use electric stoves/ovens, dishwashers, washers/dryers after 8 pm or later.

• Use small appliances for cooking whenever possible.

• Turn off your personal computer when not in use and avoid any unnecessary use.

• Turn the thermostat down to at least  68o or to the lowest comfortable setting.

• Use ceiling fans to help circulate the air. If possible, reverse the fan's setting so that it pulls the hot air from the ceiling to floor.

• Avoid using hot water for bathing until after 8 pm or later.

• Try to keep from opening the refrigerator and/or freezer doors no more than necessary.

• Avoid going in and out of the house when possible.

• Fill the empty spaces in your freezer with jugs of water. Once, frozen these will help to keep food frozen should a power outage occur. A full freezer operates more efficient than a partially empty one.

For more storm preparedness tips, visit
N.C. Emergency Management