April 11, 2004

ROSEMEAD, Calif., April 11, 2005 — Southern California Edison (SCE) is reminding its customers that April is Earthquake Preparedness month and a good time to plan for disaster preparedness.

“California is not only known for its golden beaches and snow-capped mountains, but for its earthquakes, which can create widespread damage and extended power outages,” said Rose Pearson, manager of consumer affairs. “We’re encouraging our customers to take steps now to ready their families should a strong earthquake strike.”

The utility offers these important safety tips:

  • Have emergency supplies on hand that include a battery-powered radio, extra batteries, nonperishable foods, flashlights, bottled water and a first-aid kit which includes medications and items for infant, elderly or disabled family members.  Emergency supplies should last at least 72 hours.
  • If you see a power line on the ground, don’t touch it, whether it’s sparking or not.  Call SCE immediately at (800) 611-1911 for assistance.  
  • If you experience a power outage, do not use candles for lighting since they create a fire hazard.  Use flashlights instead.
  • Do not use outdoor cooking equipment inside your home.  Charcoal and gas grills can emit toxic gases like carbon monoxide, which can be deadly.
  • Before an earthquake strikes, take time to strap your water heater to a wall to prevent it from falling over during a temblor.  Materials to secure your water heater can be found at local home improvement stores.
  • If you have an electric generator that is, or can be connected to your electrical or utility wiring, state law requires that you notify SCE of its location.  Please call (800) 655-4555 to request an electric Generator Notification Card. 
  • For more information, please visit www.sce.com and click on “Safety” then “Emergency Planning.”

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An Edison International (NYSE:EIX) company, Southern California Edison is one of the nation’s largest electric utilities, serving a population of more than 13 million via 4.6 million customer accounts in a 50,000-square-mile service area within central, coastal and Southern California.