With the 2016 hurricane season approaching, Alabama Power employees are ready to respond, if and when they are needed. Alabama Power customers also should take stock and make sure they are prepared for severe summer weather.

The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 through Nov. 30. Hurricane researchers at Colorado State University have predicted a near-average season, with 12 named storms. They predict five of the storms will become hurricanes, and two will reach major hurricane strength, with sustained winds of 111 mph or greater. An updated forecast is expected June 1.    

Every year, Alabama Power reviews historical data and scientific models as it updates its hurricane planning and preparation. Company teams also test their storm plans by conducting drills.  

“As hurricane season approaches each year, we host an annual storm response exercise to ensure our employees are prepared for a storm event of any type,” said Vicki Chaney, a supervisor in the company’s Transmission organization. ”Storm plans are evaluated and updated, training needs are identified and scheduled, and spare emergency material is reviewed.”

The beginning of hurricane season is a good time for customers to review their plans in case of a weather emergency. Here are some safety tips for hurricane season:

Before a hurricane strikes:

• Build an emergency kit, including flashlights, batteries and a first-aid kit.

• Keep cellphones and electronic devices charged.

• Have a three-day supply of water and nonperishable food on hand.

• Make a family communications plan.

• Learn community hurricane evacuation routes. Determine where your family would meet and how you would get there.

• Cover your home’s windows and reinforce garage doors. Permanent storm shutters offer the best protection. Otherwise, board up windows with 5/8-inch exterior grade or marine plywood.

• Make sure trees and shrubs around the home are well-trimmed.

• Bring in all outdoor furniture, decorations, garbage cans, etc.

• Keep a battery-operated weather radio to stay informed.

• Turn down the thermostat to keep your home cool as long as possible.

During a hurricane:

• Seek shelter inside a sturdy building. In a tornado, the safest place is on the lowest level, in a room with no windows. Make sure pets are safe.

• Turn off propane tanks.

• Stay tuned to the radio for updates.

After the storm:

• Drive only if necessary and avoid flooded roads.

• Avoid damaged trees.

• Stay away from downed or hanging power lines. If you see a downed line, call Alabama Power at 1-800-888-APCO (2726).

• Check your property for gas leaks or structural damage. Take photos for insurance purposes.

• Avoid climbing on debris, as it may be unsafe or harbor animals.

• Be cautious about cutting or removing large limbs. Check that electrical wires are not hidden in the brush.

• Check food for spoilage and check tap water for contamination.

For more tips about hurricane preparedness and safety, visit the “Weather-Ready Nation” page on the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration website, www.noaa.gov.  

To learn more about how Alabama Power works quickly to restore power after storms, visit Alabama NewsCenter at www.alabamanewscenter.com. Click the Weather Center tab at the top of the page.

Alabama Power, a subsidiary of Atlanta-based Southern Company (NYSE:SO), provides reliable electricity to more than 1.4 million customer at a total retail price that has been below the national average for decades. Learn more at www.alabamapower.com.