After a calm first half to the summer severe weather season, Alabama Power employees remain at a high state of readiness as peak hurricane season approaches.

While the company has responded mainly to scattered weather events since derecho wind damage in March, employees remain on alert and prepared to respond to summer and fall severe weather conditions.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration continues to project above-normal activity and says there is a possibility the peak season could become very active, with four named storms already produced this year.

“While our crews have not had to mobilize a large-scale recovery effort so far this summer, we continue to monitor weather events every day and talk regularly with suppliers and outside support to make sure we can respond at a moment’s notice,” said Danny Glover, Vice President of Distribution.

In 2012, Alabama Power received the Edison Electric Institute’s Emergency Assistance Award for restoring power after derecho windstorms hit the Midwest and Middle Atlantic regions in June and after Hurricane Sandy slammed into the East Coast in October. The company also hosted storm recovery experts from nearly 30 utilities this February to discuss the best practices for power restoration.

Along with constantly working to improve their own state of storm preparedness, Alabama Power says there are many ways residents can help prepare themselves for strong storms and possible power outages.

Before a storm hits and power is knocked out, company representatives suggest residents keep their important electronic devices charged, keep extra batteries and flashlights on hand, keep at least a three-day supply of water – one gallon per person per day, monitor weather system with a battery operated radio or a weather app on a smart phone, and finally seek shelter as the storm approaches.

If a customer loses power, Alabama Power suggests residents turn off appliances, stay away from downed lines, stay clear of fallen trees or debris, and call the company’s automated reporting system at 1-800-888-APCO (2726).