Hurricane Safety Tips

GB Power Co. not leaving customers in the dark

The Grand Bahama Power Company (GBPC) is enhancing its customer service by enabling residents on the island to keep track of operations in a more efficient manner.

According to GBPC Corporate Communications Officer Philcher Grant-Farquharson there are a variety of methods that consumers can use to keep up with the activity involving GBPC, methods which will prove to be beneficial especially during power outages.

“We are able to communicate with customers in real time now,” Grant-Farquharson said.  “As soon as we are aware of an outage situation notifications are posted on our website, relayed via our customer service attendants, placed on our IVR (interactive voice response) phone system, as well as broadcasted on local radio stations.”

It’s a welcomed addition for consumers on Grand Bahama, now able to keep track of any scheduled maintenence and planned outages by the company.  Grant-Farquharson mentioned that making this information available through a number of mediums will allow residents to plan ahead for such occurrences instead of being surprised by them.

“We are very cognizant that our customers need to be informed of any maintenance work well ahead of time,” she said.  “We are notifying customers via the local radio stations, on our website and for the more localized maintenance work we contact the customers personally.”

The improved line of communication doesn’t end there, with GBPC also reaching out to customers through their newsletters offering hurricane advice, company news, corporate changes and energy saving tips to them.

"Billing inserts this month will be very important demonstration of hurricane safety tips, particularly for generators and downed power lines. Its a very important information in case of emergencies and I encourage families to read this information, "said Grant-Farquharson.

Grand Bahama Power Company Ltd. is a fully integrated utility serving 50,000 residents of the island and commercial establishments from east to west. The company employs over 180 Bahamians and one of the lowest rates for electricity in the Caribbean.

Hurricane Safety Tips for Dogs Tampa Hurricane Season | Canine ...

As we prepare for hurricane season it is important to remember to plan for you pet(s) as well.  Keep vaccinations current and keep a copy of the records in a safe location that you can access to take with you if you must evacuate.  (Shelters will require current proof of a Rabies vaccination before allowing you to stay).  Be sure to have a copy of your pets microchip number, the phone contact information for the microchip company, and be certain that your information with the microchip company is up to date.  A recent picture should be attached to your pet records as well.A collar with tags securely attached stating your current contact information are extremely important if you are separated at any time. Be sure to keep the collar on your dog at all times, whether you evacuate or not.

A case of safety / kennel is required if you have to evacuate and go to a local shelter. Take a few minutes to locate the nearest pet friendly shelter in this area. It is very important to verify the information pet shelter, respectful of each year, because it changes frequently. Here is a link to the Hillsborough County 2011 pet shelter: http://www.hillsboroughcounty.org/animalservices/pdf/PetShelters.pdf

Water for yourself and your pets is very important.  Pack ample food and if your dog requires medication, please be certain to have those prescritpions refilled early.  For cats, please also pack litter and a litter box.  If your pet is not friendly with people, please remember to bring a muzzle with you.

As with any change, your pets will respond differently before, during, and after a storm.  After the storm, check for damage outside before allowing them to go out.  Broken fences, plant debris, and broken trees/branches can all be dangerous and disorienting to your pets.  It is best to keep them on-leash for several days following a storm when going outside for potties.  This will keep them safe and give you peace of mind.

If you are separated from your pet during a storm, contact animal services.  In Hillsborough County, FL, the number is (813)744-5660.  Also contact your online microchip company and let them know the last location of your pet.  All pet rescue organizations during a tragedy will first attempt to find a microchip and contact you.  So if your pet does not have a microchip, then contact your local veterinarian and have this done as soon as possible. 

Advanced preparation will keep you and pet safe.

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