The Jamaica Public Service (JPS) is urging customers in areas impacted by Hurricane Melissa to ensure that their properties are safe to receive electricity.

In a release, JPS said homes and businesses affected by flooding, strong winds or any form of structural damage should be inspected by a licensed electrician, before being reconnected to the power grid.

Customers are also being reminded that electrical safety standards for private properties are monitored and approved by the government electrical regulator.

Meantime, is also urging users of standby generators  to operate their units safely and in accordance with manufacturers’ instructions to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.

The toxic fumes emitted by generators are odourless, making them difficult to detect by smell alone. 

JPS advises that generators be placed outdoors, in well-ventilated areas and away from vents, windows or any location where people could inhale the fumes.

Generator users are also warned not to overload their units, as overloading can seriously damage appliances and electronics. 

Additionally, persons are reminded  to ensure their generators are set to prevent electricity from back-feeding into JPS power lines, which could endanger line workers.

Individuals with solar power systems must ensure their setups are configured to prevent power from feeding into the grid.