Guam Power Authority overhead crews were out in full force preparing for a potential storm. Bucket trucks were scattered all across the island clearing up overgrown vegetation beneath power lines.
We caught up with one of the overhead line crews deep in the village of Agana Heights.
The three-man team of Kyle Siguenza, Ed Garrido and Matt Toves could be seen cutting away the thick brush that could drag down power lines if the winds whip up from a storm.
GPA often responds to calls from residents who know that not clearing the overgrowth could mean longer restoration times.
Superintendent of the Overhead Division Jesse Cruz said about eight different crews are scattered all across the island clearing vegetation.
"They're all strategically placed in critical areas, also areas reported by our dispatch as critical," he said. "It's important to keep the lines clear because when the winds come they won't wreak havoc on our lines and we can concentrate on more other areas that we can get to. Our crew is dedicated, hard-working, motivated to keep the power on or restore as quickly as possible if the storm does pass."
Keeping the power on for as long as possible, and restoring it when it goes down as quickly as they can are a top priority...
And it often means spending many hours away from their own families during natural disasters.
Cruz said they do their home protection and preparation ahead of time.
"Our families are trained to take care of the things while we're at work and then we help out before, day before," he said.
GPA also issued some readiness tips. They include:
Tips for the safe operation of and use of generators:
Connecting the Generator
neighbors served by the same utility transformer. The only safe way to connect a generator to a house/building wiring is to have a qualified electrician install a power transfer switch.
• Use proper extension cords. Use only safety-tested, shop-type electrical cords designed
and rated for heavier, outdoor use to connect appliances.
• Protect your appliances. Turn off or unplug all appliances and lights before you begin operating the portable generator. Once the generator is running, turn your appliances and lights on one at a time to avoid overloading the unit.
Placement of Generator
• Never use a portable generator indoors – If you or someone starts to feel sick, dizzy or weak while using a generator, move to fresh air right away, do not delay.
• Place the generator in a dry, outside location.
• Place the generator away from windows, doors, and vents that could allow CO to come indoors.
• To avoid electrocution, keep the generator dry. Do not use in rain or wet conditions. Operate on a dry surface under an open canopy-like structure. Make sure your hands are dry before touching the generator.
Use and Storage of Generator Fuel
parts could ignite.
• Store fuel in an approved safety can outside of living areas, preferably in a locked area or other protected area.
• If you spill fuel or do not seal the container properly, invisible vapors can travel along the ground and be ignited by arcs from electric switches in the appliance.
• Use the type of fuel recommended in the generator instructions or on its label.
• Before shutting down a generator, turn off and unplug all appliances and equipment
being powered by the generator.
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