Drought Conditions and Extreme Heat Increase the Importance of Fire Safety this Fourth of July Holiday Weekend

Rhea-AI Summary

PG&E emphasizes safety precautions for the Fourth of July amid high temperatures and drought conditions. The utility advises customers to adhere to local fireworks regulations to prevent fires and electric hazards. Key safety tips include attending professional fireworks shows, avoiding illegal fireworks, and being cautious around power lines. Additionally, the company urges people to stay hydrated, recognize heat stroke symptoms, and ensure swimming safety. Customers are encouraged to update their contact information online to receive important alerts.

Positive

• Customer safety initiatives may enhance community trust and brand reputation.
• Encouraging customers to stay updated with contact information can improve emergency response.

Negative

• Increased risk of fires and electrical hazards may strain emergency services.
• Drought conditions pose ongoing operational challenges and risks to infrastructure.

Helping our Customers and Communities Stay Safe this Independence Day

OAKLAND, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- It’s critical to put safety first this Fourth of July with the triple digit heat combined with extremely dry conditions from an extended drought and climate change.

Celebrations that involve fireworks, barbeques and swimming can increase the risk of fires, electric hazards, heat-related illnesses, and other perils. Echoing recommendations from first responders, PG&E asks customers to follow local rules and regulations regarding fireworks.

Here are additional ways to stay safe this summer:

Electric Safety

• The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a public fireworks show put on by professionals.
• First and foremost, know what the local regulations allow. Be aware of surroundings — stay clear of power lines, structures, dry grass, or flammable materials when using legally purchased fireworks in areas approved by local regulations.
• If a firework strikes electric equipment or causes a power line to come down, stay away, keep others away and immediately call 9-1-1 and PG&E at 1-800-743-5000.
• Always assume downed electric lines are energized and extremely dangerous. Never attempt to retrieve anything that is tangled in or near a power line.

Summer Safety

• Make sure everyone has proper skills to swim. Keep an eye on young children and check flotation devices for leaks.
• Every child under 13 must wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket when on a moving vessel that is 26 feet or less in length.
• Don't dive or jump into unfamiliar water. Shallow water or submerged trees or rocks could cause serious injury.
• Don't swim or play near a dam or powerhouse; these areas can have strong underwater currents, sudden water discharges, slippery surfaces and submerged hazards.
• Never use generators, propane heaters, barbeques or charcoal indoors due to carbon monoxide risks.

Heat Safety

• Limit exposure to direct sunlight. Reapply sunscreen often.
• Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol or caffeine when temperatures are high.
• During hot weather, watch for signs of heat stroke — hot, red skin; changes in consciousness; rapid, weak pulse; or rapid, shallow breathing. If you suspect someone is suffering from heat stroke, call 9-1-1 and move the person to a cooler place. Use cold towels to help lower their body temperature until help arrives.

PG&E encourages customers to confirm their phone number, email, language preference, and mailing address are current in their online account by visiting pge.com/mywildfirealerts.

About PG&E

Pacific Gas and Electric Company, a subsidiary of PG&E Corporation (NYSE:PCG), is a combined natural gas and electric utility serving more than 16 million people across 70,000 square miles in Northern and Central California. For more information, visit pge.com and pge.com/news.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220630005809/en/

MEDIA RELATIONS:

415-973-5930

Source: Pacific Gas and Electric Company

FAQ

What safety measures is PG&E advising for the Fourth of July?

PG&E advises attending professional fireworks shows, obeying local regulations, and avoiding hazards near power lines.

How does PG&E suggest handling extreme heat during summer?

PG&E recommends staying hydrated, recognizing heat stroke symptoms, and limiting direct sunlight exposure.

What precautions should be taken around swimming safety as suggested by PG&E?

Ensure swimming skills, supervise children, and use Coast Guard-approved life jackets for young kids.

What impact do drought conditions have on PG&E operations?

Drought conditions increase risks of fires and electrical hazards, stressing operational integrity.

How can customers update their contact information with PG&E?

Customers can update their contact information by visiting PG&E's online account management page.