ST. LOUIS — Ameren Missouri is putting additional safety measures in place and is offering tips for customers on how to prepare for severe weather.
The additional measures are being put in place due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Ameren said safety is the “first and foremost concern during any weather event” and the company wants to remind customers to be mindful of social distancing and to maintain a safe, six-foot distance when engaging with Ameren crews.
"More people are home, so there's more interest in the important work that we're doing," said Patrick Smith, vice president of division operations for Ameren Missouri. "Our crews are practicing social distancing, and we ask our customers to please do the same if they see an Ameren Missouri co-worker working in their neighborhood."
What to keep in mind when severe weather hits:
- Stay away from downed power lines and assume they are energized. Also stay clear of brush and trees that may hide downed lines. Report downed lines and outages by calling Ameren Missouri at 1-800-552-7583 or 911.
- Create a plan for seeking shelter in the event of severe weather and discuss the plan with all members of the household.
- Keep phones and electronics charged when storms are in the forecast.
- Prepare a storm kit with emergency telephone numbers, flashlights and a radio with fresh batteries, along with bottled water and non-perishable foods that don't require heating. Also include medication and special items for infants, the elderly or family members with special needs.
- Turn refrigerators to coldest setting and leave the refrigerator doors closed.
To view the Ameren outage map or to sign up for outage alerts, click here.
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