‘Safety first’ during a storm, says DOMLEC’s PRO

Public Relations Officer (PRO) of Dominica Electricity Services  (DOMLEC), Ayeola George, has highlighted a few safety tips for the public to take note of during a storm.

The 2025 Atlantic Hurricane Season began on June 1, and will end on November 30.

“During the storm: safety first,” she said during a statement recently. “When the wind picks up and it’s beginning to rain, your priority should be the safety of you and your household.”

According to her, power outages can occur, and one’s response makes a big difference as it relates to safety during the storm.

“So here are some safety tips for you to take note of during a storm. Number one, stay indoors and stay away from windows. So even if you’re inside the house, still try to avoid being close to the window because flying debris and lightning strikes are very real threats that could negatively impact you or someone that you love,” George stated.

She continued, “Number two, turn off your main breaker if flooding is likely.”

She further explained that water and electricity are not a good combination. “So, turning off your breaker helps to prevent electrical fires, electrocutions.”

George added, “Number three, avoid using corded appliances.  If lightning strikes,  these can carry current, so it’s important to make sure that they are either unused or unplugged.”

Furthermore, she advised the public to avoid going outside to check on power lines or fallen poles.

“Many of you may be tempted to do that, right? You want to see what’s happening in your neighborhood, if everybody’s okay. But you have to assume that every line is active even if they may look like nothing is happening there…,” George advised.  “ Don’t go outside and touch or check power lines or fallen poles. The best you can do is call us at 811, and we will come and check for you.”

To persons who own generators, George warns of the misuse of these generators.

“At the beginning of the program, we did mention that you can check on your generator prior to any storm, make sure it’s properly located, and so forth. But, when the storm happens and you have to use it, try your best to use it properly,” she noted.

George pointed out that using the generator indoors or in a very enclosed space can be dangerous.

“As I mentioned, carbon monoxide poisoning is silent and deadly. So, you may be inhaling this gas and not really being aware of it,” she noted. “ Also, plug appliances directly into the generator or use professionally-installed transfer switch to do so. So please, please be careful, those of you who have generators and how you use [them] during the storm.”

In the meantime, George told the public that during the storm, radios should be kept on for the necessary updates from the Office of Disaster Management.

“And please be patient, especially with DOMLEC, because sometimes crews cannot go out if it’s not safe for them to do so,” She stated. “So  our crews are  residents of communities and [homes], head of households, just like you are, and so they may have to remain indoors  for their own safety  and then come out when things are calmer and it’s safe to do so to check  and restore service.”