Unison Networks today advised its customers in Hawke’s Bay to prepare for possible periods without power, with heavy rain expected to hit the region early on Monday as Cyclone Pam passes east over the country. 

Unison Networks’ Relationship & Customer Care Manager, Danny Gough, said there was still uncertainty as to what this storm would do, and how severely the Hawke’s Bay region would be affected.

“We are keeping a close eye on the forecast as cyclone Pam progresses, and have additional crews on call if required.”

He said rough weather conditions can affect the network, so it was therefore timely for customers to prepare for periods without power.

“As part of your household emergency kit, make sure you have a battery operated radio and torch, a full gas bottle for cooking on your BBQ, and if you rely on electricity for heating, we also recommend a portable gas heater.”

Unison is also advising customers to put garden furniture and trampolines away, as well as any other loose material around the property.

Whilst there are currently no weather warnings in place for Rotorua and Taupo, the Bay of Plenty Civil Defence organisation in these areas is keeping track of any forecast changes.

Should the power go out, Unison advises the following safety precautions:

• Check for fallen or damaged power lines. Never touch wires or lines lying on the ground, hanging from poles, or objects such as trees that may be touching them. Fallen lines or wires may still be carrying an electrical current and could shock, injure or even kill if touched.
  
  
• Turn off the power at the main switch if you suspect any electrical damage in your home. If the power goes out, turn off all electrical appliances to prevent possible damage by a power surge when the electricity supply is restored.
  
  
• Remember that if the electricity network is damaged, it may take a number of hours to be reconnected, so make sure you have your household emergency kit ready.

   

  Important information sources:

• To report a fault, call 0800 2 UNISON.
  
  
• Learn more about safety around fallen power lines, and being prepared for no power:  http://www.unison.co.nz/tell-me-about/safety/safety-around-fallen-power-lines.
  
  
• Read about how to prepare for a storm at www.getthru.gov.nz