Home : Customer Connections : Disaster Preparation Resources

Disaster Preparation Resources

2011 Hurricane Readiness Tips:

*Remember the “three don’ts” when using generators: DON’T run a generator in the house; DON’T run a generator in the garage; and, DON’T plug the generator directly into your home’s main electrical system. The first two can lead to asphyxiation and the third can send an electrical charge back into the power grid, posing an electrocution hazard to utility workers. DO run the generator outside in a well-ventilated area and DO plug individual appliances directly into the generator.

*After the storm, check to see if your home’s weatherhead is damaged – it is located above the electric meter where the wires come out of the pipe. Utility workers cannot reconnect service if this piece of equipment – which is the homeowner’s responsibility – is damaged. If your weatherhead needs repair, please contact a licensed electrician.

*Capture water in your water heater by turning off power to the unit and closing the water valves. If you lose water pressure, you will have about 40 gallons of fresh water stored in the tank. Store additional water in your bathtub and fill the washing machine with water. This water supply can be used for cleaning or to operate your toilets.

*Prior to the storm, identify the places around your home where you can shut off your gas, water and electricity. In an emergency, you might need to turn them off quickly. Following a power outage, unplug all your large appliances and electronics to prevent power surges when electricity is restored, which can often damage equipment and create fire hazards.

*Create a hurricane survival kit that includes: first aid supplies; water (at least one gallon/person/day); batteries; flashlights; battery powered radio; manual can opener; prescriptions; baby food and diapers; pet food; canned foods; cash; tarps; rope; bleach; trash bags; charcoal or gas grill with plenty of fuel; wooden kitchen matches; and a portable cooler. Don’t forget a hardwire, corded phone. Cordless phones will not work during a power outage.

To prepare our community

for weather emergencies is part of our responsibility at the Utilities Commission. Here you will find some helpful information on disaster preparedness.

Please do not wait for an emergency to prepare. Have a plan ready for your entire family so if a strong weather event occurs, you will be able to protect your life and property.

Safety After the Storm - Generator Safety Guide (pdf)

2010 Hurricane Preparation Guide (pdf)

Water Conservation &
Wild Fire Prevention in NSB (pdf)

For updates on disasters, you can visit the Volusia/Flagler Public Information Network.

UC Outage Reporting System

The UC has an automatic response system in times of extensive outages. Customers who call (386) 424-1366 will hear a recorded message that gives known outages at the time.

If you hear your area listed, there is no need to leave a phone number or message. If you don't hear the area you are calling about, leave your phone number or message.

If we have a current phone number on file, your name and address will appear on our screen and we can see where the problem is so there is no need to leave a message. Update your phone number via E-Access or by calling customer service at (386) 424-1361.

If a massive hurricane hits, we know your power is out and there is no need to leave messages.

Residents are encouraged to monitor all local radio stations for county-wide information. Radio stations may include WSBB 1230 AM and 1640 AM, WNDB 1150 AM, 93.1 FM, 95.7 FM, and 103.3 FM.

Many television stations will likely have coverage of local storm events. TV stations may include PBS 15 and Bright House Channel 199.

Important Numbers & Websites

For all emergencies, call 911.

NSB Police: (386) 424-2000

Volusia Cty Sheriff: (386) 423-3352

UCNSB: (386) 427-1361

Emergency Electric: (386) 427-1366

Emergency Water/Wasterwater:

(386) 427-1368

NSB Public Works: (386) 424-2212

Volusia County Public Works:

(386) 943-7889