Can a power company disconnect your electric in extreme heat? What MS law says
Summers in Mississippi can be downright scorchers, from the hot sun to the humid air.
But for those who are struggling to pay their power bills, the hot summers can be even harder.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau’s Household Pulse Survey, almost 50% of Mississippi residents struggle to pay their household bills between the summer months of June and July, and have even experienced multiple disconnections.
But power shut-offs can get dangerous fast in extreme heat, so is it even legal for power companies to shut off electric service when it gets really hot? Here’s what to know.
Is it legal for power companies to shut off electric during extreme heat?
More than 40 states have laws preventing disconnections during extremely cold months, but only 19 states have laws for extreme heat, according to the Washington Post.
But good news for Mississippi residents: Power companies in Mississippi can’t disconnect your power, even due to nonpayment if, as of 8 a.m. on the scheduled disconnection day, the National Weather Service has issued an Excessive Heat Warning for the resident’s county.
How to protect yourself and your home in extreme heat
Staying hydrated, cool and indoors are no-brainers for extreme heat, but what else can you do to protect yourself and your home when it gets really hot?
Before extreme heat
Check to see if your home’s cooling system is working properly.
Make sure your home is well insulated and that you have weather stripping around your doors and window sills to keep the cool air inside.
Install window air conditioners snugly; insulate if necessary.
Check air-conditioning ducts for proper insulation.
Install temporary window reflectors (for use between windows and drapes), such as aluminum foil-covered cardboard, to reflect heat back outside.
Cover windows that receive morning or afternoon sun with drapes, shades, awnings or louvers. Outdoor awnings or louvers can reduce the heat that enters a home by up to 80%.
Keep storm windows up all year.
Learn about the types of medical conditions that can result from heat waves, and the proper first aid measures that should be taken.
During extreme heat
Stay indoors as much as possible and limit exposure to the sun.
Drink plenty of fluids and replace salts and minerals in your body. Anyone on a fluid-restricted diet or who has a problem with fluid retention should consult a doctor before increasing liquid intake. People with epilepsy or heart, kidney or liver disease should also consult a doctor before increasing liquid intake. A sports beverage can replace the salt and minerals you lose in sweat. Avoid using salt tablets unless directed to do so by a physician.
Limit intake of alcoholic beverages.
Closely monitor a local radio station, TV station or NOAA Weather Radio for the latest information.
Dress in loose-fitting, lightweight and light-colored clothes that cover as much skin as possible. Protect face and head by wearing a wide-brimmed hat.
Spend time in air-conditioned places. If you cannot afford an air conditioner, spend some time each day in an air-conditioned environment such as public libraries, shopping malls or other indoor public spaces.
Stay on the lowest floor, out of the sunshine if air conditioning is not available.
Check on family, friends and neighbors who do not have air conditioning and who spend much of their time alone.
Never leave children or pets alone in closed vehicles.
Avoid strenuous work during the warmest part of the day. Use a buddy system when working in extreme heat, and take frequent breaks.
What other questions do you have? Let me know in the comments or email me at cmadden@mcclatchy.com
