Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, Los Angeles County Fire Department and California Highway Patrol officials have released some tips on how to stay safe in the Santa Clarita Valley while it’s raining.

California Highway Patrol:

The California Highway Patrol (CHP), along with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) officials, wants to encourage travelers to always buckle up, avoid driving distracted, obey the posted speed limit, and never drink and drive.

“Something as simple as buckling up before your trip can save your life and avoid turning a non-injury collision into a tragedy,” said CHP Commissioner Joe Farrow.

The CHP would also like to remind motorists to avoid distracted driving, to travel at a speed that is safe for conditions, and also designate a non-drinking driver for the safety of everyone on the road. The public is encouraged to report unsafe or impaired drivers by calling 9-1-1.

“Protect yourself and those you love through the simple action of buckling a seat belt,” added Commissioner Farrow. “Seat belts are the single most effective piece of equipment in a vehicle that will prevent loss of life or injury.

Los Angeles Department of Water and Power News Release:

With the first major rainstorm of the season expected to hit the Southland tomorrow, the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) is ready to respond to rain-related power outages that may occur.

During storms, power poles and lines can be knocked down by tree limbs, palm fronds or other debris and can cause power outages.

This is especially true during early season storms, when dried out palm fronds and tree branches can break easily and severe power lines.

LADWP crews are at the ready  around-the-clock to restore power to any affected customers as quickly and safely as possible.

LADWP also urges its customers to use caution around any downed power lines, which can be fatal.

Any downed power line should be treated as if it is “live” and reported immediately by calling 9-1-1. Anyone experiencing a power outage should call 1-800-DIAL-DWP (1-800-342-5397) and use the automated telephone system to report it.

The automated information is relayed to dispatchers and customer service representatives to respond.  Outage information is available online and updates are posted on Twitter (@LADWP) during storms.

In preparation for the rain, LADWP also reminds customers to turn off their sprinklers. The State of California remains in a serious drought, and continued water conservation is important to help preserve precious drinking water supplies.

LADWP offers the following additional tips for electrical safety during a storm:

When Around Downed Power Lines:

• Never touch a downed or dangling wire or anyone or anything in contact with it. Always assume a downed line is still energized.
• Report any downed power lines immediately by calling the LADWP at 1-800-DIAL-DWP (1-800-342-5397). If you or someone else is in danger, call 9-1-1.
• Don’t touch anyone in contact with a power source – you could be killed or seriously injured. Instead, turn off power at the control panel and immediately call for help.
• If a power line falls on your car, stay in the car and wait for help. If you must get out, make sure you do not touch the metal parts of the car and the ground at the same
• Stay away from metal fences, such as a chain link fence – there may be a power line down and touching the fence somewhere beyond your sight.
• If there is damage to the connection from the power pole to your house, you should go to the electrical box and turn off the main switch or shut off the fuse switch. Again, always assume electric lines are live.
• In case of an electrical emergency, stay calm and think before you act. Don’t become a victim while trying to help others. Call 9-1-1.

If Your Power Goes Out:

• Stay calm.
• Have a flashlight and extra batteries nearby. Don’t use candles in a power outage.
• Turn off lights but leave one light turned on so you will know when your service is restored.
• Turn off and unplug appliances and other electrical equipment. Unplug heat-producing items like irons and space heaters. This helps prevent circuit overloading, which could delay restoration of service.
• Call LADWP and report your outage at 1-800-DIAL DWP (1-800-342-5397).

Los Angeles County Fire Department News Release:

Don’t get caught in a mud and debris flow!  

Los Angeles County firefighters remind their local residents to be aware of the potential mud and debris flow dangers associated with rainy days. This is especially true for residents living in post-burn areas of any recent wildfires.

Checklist if you live in a burn area:

• Monitor radio and TV news closely for information about weather conditions and flooding in your area.
• Identify important items to take if your neighborhood is evacuated, such as computers, photos, important documents, medications, and other needed items for your family and pets.
• Be prepared to leave immediately if an evacuation is ordered.  Have alternate evacuation routes out of your neighborhood.
• Have an emergency plan that is easy for all family members to understand.
• Have enough food and water to supply your family for at least a 72-hour period.
• Always remember to include a radio and flashlight with fresh batteries in your kit.
• Acquire any needed sandbags and instructional materials at your local Los Angeles County fire station.

Be storm smart!  Follow these general storm safety guidelines:

1.    Never underestimate the power of storm and debris flows.
2.    Stay away from flood control channels, catch basins, canyons, and natural waterways, which are vulnerable to flooding during periods of heavy rain.
3.    Do not attempt to cross flooded areas and never enter moving water on foot or in a vehicle.
4.    If flooding traps you in your car, stay in your vehicle if possible.  If necessary, wait on top of your car for assistance.
5.    If you become isolated, seek the highest ground available and wait for help.
6.    If you see someone who has been swept into moving water, do not enter the water and attempt a rescue.  Immediately call 9-1-1 and, if possible, throw a rope or some type of floatation device to them.

The more prepared you are, the better chance you have to survive a major storm-related emergency. For more information on flood safety and disaster preparedness, visit the website