(MERRILLVILLE) - Northern Indiana Public Service Company is reminding customers to prepare for severe weather as Indiana's Severe Weather Preparedness Week begins Sunday and runs through March 14.
NIPSCO officials say residents should review emergency plans, assemble storm preparedness kits, and make arrangements for backup power if someone in the household relies on life-support equipment.
Safety kits should include essentials such as medications, non-perishable food, water, flashlights, portable radios, batteries, and a manual can opener.
Officials also warn generator users to follow manufacturer instructions and place generators away from doors, windows, and vents to prevent carbon monoxide exposure.
During storms, residents are urged to stay away from downed power lines and report them immediately.
NIPSCO also reminds homeowners to call 811 at least two full working days before digging so underground utility lines can be marked.
Customers can report power outages through the NIPSCO mobile app, online, by texting "OUT" to 444111, or by calling 1-800-464-7726.