Common Sense Cold Weather Tips from JCP&L

Frigid temperatures combined with strong winds will create dangerous wind chill readings Tuesday, according to the National Weather Service. 

In light of the forecast, the Township of Springfield is offering cold weather tips from JCP&L:

Some common-sense weather preparations to safely address the extreme cold include: 

• For heating purposes, use only equipment that is made for home heating. Never use a gas stove, charcoal grill or lantern intended for outdoor use inside your home as deadly carbon monoxide gas could build up.

• Ensure space heaters have been tested to the latest safety standards and certified by a nationally recognized testing laboratory, and always follow the manufacturer’s directions for proper use. Place the heater on a level, hard, nonflammable surface and at least three feet away from bedding, drapes, furniture and other flammable materials. Turn space heaters off when you leave the area or go to sleep.

• Use a sturdy fireplace screen when operating a fireplace or wood burning stove.

• Never use a portable generator inside the house or a closed garage in the event of a power outage. Ensure the proper generator is selected and installed by a qualified electrician. When operating a generator, the power coming into the home should always be disconnected. Otherwise, power from the generator could be sent back onto the utility lines, creating a hazardous situation for utility workers. 

If an outage occurs as a result of the severe weather, customers should call 1-888-LIGHTSS (1-888-544-4877) to report their outage or click the “Report Outage” link on www.firstenergycorp.com via smartphone. Customers should immediately report downed wires to their utility or their local police or fire department. Customers should never go near a downed power line, even if they think it is no longer carrying electricity.