Workmen on a Jamaica Public Service pole. Trim trees and hedges, and remove danger trees that could fall on JPS lines during strong winds.- File

Although Jamaica Public Service's (JPS) power system is built to withstand and operate throughout some hurricane conditions, like most other electric utilities, some elements of the power system are likely to be affected by strong winds and heavy rains. Strong wind will break power lines and bring trees in contact with the system, and heavy rain will wash away poles and sections of transmission and distribution lines, all of which will cause power outages.

In anticipation of the hurricane season, therefore, JPS has taken steps to ensure that all relevant operational areas of the company are ready to respond in the event of an emergency.

Ongoing structural integrity programme

Central to the company's preparation for the season is an ongoing structural integrity programme, which involves the replacement of old wooden poles with concrete poles to reduce the likelihood of displacement by flooding. In addition, the company is ensuring that back-up material and other resources are in place to facilitate speedy repair and replacement of damaged equipment.

Employee preparedness is critical for the effective implementation of the company's emergency plan. JPS boasts the most sought-after linesmen in the region who, because of their expertise, are often called on to assist other Caribbean utilities in their restoration efforts after hurricanes. This team of highly trained experts is standing ready to do whatever it takes to get customers' lights back on in the shortest possible time after a hurricane. In addition to its in-house expertise, JPS has a network of contractors who are on standby to provide assistance where necessary.

Restoration Protocol - Essential Services First

While JPS takes steps to alleviate significant damage to its system in the event of a hurricane, the company warns customers to be prepared for the possibility of power outages. The company is especially urging customers to be patient after the hurricane, as there is a systematic restoration protocol that must be observed in order to restore power safely to everyone in the shortest possible time.

After the hurricane, the first priority of the JPS's emergency teams will be to assess the extent of the damage to the system in the respective parishes. The main focus must first be to identify and fix damage to its power plants and main transmission lines, because without these systems customers cannot get electricity.

Once this phase of repair is completed, electricity will first be restored to the main lines that provide electricity to essential services such as hospitals, airports, communication systems, and water supply facilities. Initial focus will also be on fixing the damage that will restore supply to most people in the shortest time. Once the damage on the main transmission and distribution lines is fixed, then attention is given to the smaller lines, and finally to individual customers with isolated problems.

The overall timeline for restoration will be determined by the extent of the damage to the power system, and the accessibility of the affected areas.

Some Tips for Your Safety During the Season

Here are some tips from JPS to help you stay safe this season:

1. Trim trees and hedges, and remove danger trees that could fall on JPS lines during strong winds. Contact JPS for advice when trimming or removing trees close to power lines.

2. In the event of power cuts caused by severe weather, it is best to use battery-powered flashlights instead of candles.

3. If you must use candles, do not leave them unattended - keep them in safe holders and away from flammable material, like curtains, paper and wood.

4. Make sure family members know where the circuit breaker is located in case you need to turn off the power. This will be necessary if you have to evacuate during a hurricane, or if water gets into your house.

5. In case of heavy winds and severe lightning, turn off and unplug electrical equipment, especially sensitive electronics.

6. If you have to evacuate your home during a hurricane, when you return, check for electrical damage, such as frayed wires, sparks, the smell of hot or burned insulation, or disconnected service wires. If you find such damage, don't turn your power on until your house is checked by an electrician. Electrical damage in your house must be repaired by a certified electrician.

7. Never touch a fallen power line or try to move it yourself. If the line is still energised, you could be electrocuted. Contact the police or report it to JPS.

8. If you are using a portable generator, plug appliances into the generator, using extension cords if necessary. For your safety, place the portable generator outside the house so the generator gets proper ventilation. Always turn off the generator when refuelling.

9. Only a licensed electrician should attempt to connect a standby generator to the main electric panel of a home or business. A special switch is needed to ensure that the power from the generator does not 'back feed' into JPS lines and injure customers or JPS crews working to restore service.

10. When a hurricane threatens, turn your refrigerators and freezers to their coldest settings - this will ensure that the food lasts longer in the event of a power outage.