Energy dept issues ‘kaligtasan’ tips during calamities

The Department of Energy (DOE) on Friday issued tips on the safe use of electrical appliances during times of calamities. (Photo: PIA-Bataan/Facebook)

MANILA—The Department of Energy (DOE) on Friday issued tips on the safe use of electrical appliances during times of calamities.

During a storm, the department advised the public to charge mobile phones, gadgets, and emergency lights as soon as a storm warning has been issued in preparation for a power outage. It discouraged the use of appliances during a storm and suggested the use of a battery-operated radio to monitor news bulletins.

If there is a possibility of flooding, the main switch and circuit breaker should be turned off to prevent damage to the electrical system. People should also immediately report broken tree branches to their barangay or distribution utility so these could be removed before they knock down power lines.

In case of flooding inside homes, the department advised the public to ensure that appliances are not submerged in water. During a power outage, the refrigerator should be unplugged and should not be opened and closed frequently to preserve its coolness.

In unplugging appliances, one should pull the plug and not the cord to prevent damage to the power cord, and should make sure that his body and surroundings are dry to prevent electrocution.

After an earthquake, one should ask an expert to check the power lines, outlets and breakers before using them. LPG tanks and hoses should be inspected for leaks to prevent fire.