he Manila Electric Company (Meralco) has assured its customers that its personnel are ready to immediately respond to electricity-related concerns that may arise due to Severe Tropical Storm Carina (international name: Gaemi).
“As a 24–hour service company, we are ready to respond to any trouble that may affect our facilities,” Meralco Vice President and Head of Corporate Communications Joe R. Zaldarriaga said.
Zaldarriaga also advised the public to observe safety measures when using electrical devices and appliances in case of flooding.
- Ensure that the main electrical power switch or circuit breaker is off. Be sure to be dry when being in contact with any electrical facility.
- Unplug appliances from wall sockets. Turn off permanently connected equipment and unscrew all light bulbs if possible.
- Remove mud and dirt from service equipment or main circuit breaker/fuse and its enclosure using rubber gloves and rubber-soled shoes.
- Make sure that all electrical wires, connectors, and other wiring devices are completely dry.
- When all electrical wires and accessories have dried and are clean, the wiring system of all appliances must be checked by a licensed electrician. Do not turn on flood-damaged electrical appliances.
Zaldarriaga also encouraged the public to keep all communication channels open and ready, and to charge mobile phones, laptops, radios, and other communication devices. Customers should tune in to public service radio stations in case of power interruptions.
To report power outages and other concerns, customers may reach Meralco through its official social media pages on Facebook (www.facebook.com/meralco) and Twitter (@meralco). They may also text their concerns to 0920-9716211 and 0917-5516211 or contact the Meralco Hotline at 16211 and 8631-1111.#