SCE operating normally following quake

ROSEMEAD, CALIFORNIA - Southern California EdisonÂ’s (SCEÂ’s) transmission and generation systems were operating normally after a 5.4 magnitude earthquake struck near Chino Hills on July 29, but some customers near the epicenter lost power.

As of 2 p.m. PDT, about 100 customers were without service. Initially, an estimated 5,000 customers were without service in the areas of Chino Hills, Chino, La Habra, Diamond Bar and Pomona.

A fire was reported at SCEÂ’s substation in La Habra, but no major damage was reported.

The earthquake was felt at the San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station site. There were no safety issues reported and no indications of any damage. The plant continues to operate normally.

SCE reminds its customers of the following electrical safety tips as a result of the earthquake:

• Never touch or try to move a downed power line because of the danger of electrocution. Call SCE at (800) 611-1911 and your local police and fire officials for assistance.

• Watch for traffic signals that may be out. Approach uncontrolled intersections as four-way stops.

• Make sure you have a battery-operated radio and flashlights.

• Do not rely on candles for lighting during a power outage because they pose a significant fire hazard.

• Turn off and unplug any unnecessary electrical equipment, especially sensitive electronic equipment.

• Do not use equipment designed for outdoor cooking indoors. Such equipment can emit carbon monoxide and other toxic gases.

• If you use a generator, place it outdoors and plug individual appliances directly into the generator, using a heavy-duty extension cord. Connecting generators directly to household circuits creates “backfeed,” which is dangerous to repair crews.

• During an outage, turn off unattended electrical appliances and devices to avoid possible hazards when service is restored.