Another strong typhoon is threatening the Philippines and just like before, the Manila Electric Company (Meralco) has already prepared its systems and personnel to immediately respond to any power outages that may result from the incoming weather disturbance.
Joe Zaldarriaga, Meralco Spokesperson and Head of Corporate Communications, said that as a 24–hour service company, Meralco is committed to respond to these types of emergencies, something that it has done countless of times before. “Our crews are on standby to attend to any trouble that may affect our facilities in areas that might be hit by the typhoon.”
Zaldarriaga added that Meralco has also put in place necessary measures to mitigate the possible impact of another typhoon. It continues to issue advisories on appropriate precautionary measures to take before a typhoon. “Meralco has consistently requested billboard owners and operators to temporarily roll their billboards up to prevent these structures from being toppled by the strong winds,” Zaldarriaga said. Billboards that fall into electrical facilities are among the main reasons for power outages whenever there are strong winds.
Meralco also regularly provides safety tips to customers with regard to using electrical devices and appliances in cases of flooding.
- Ensure that the main electrical power switch or circuit breaker is off. Be sure to be dry at all times while 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, and;
- 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.
Again, Zaldarriaga urged the public to keep all channels of communication open and ready by making sure that their mobile phones, laptops, radios, and other communication gadgets are all fully charged. “They can also tune in to the different public service radio stations should power interruptions occur.”
He added that the Meralco Call Center will be ready to accept customer concerns. Customers may get in touch via Meralco Facebook page (www.facebook.com/meralco) and Twitter account (@meralco). They may also text their concerns to 0920-9716211 (Smart), 0917-5516211 (Globe), and 0925-7716211 (Sun) or contact Meralco Call Center at 16211 and 8631-1111.