PNM offers tips to stay safe during high winds

High winds hit Rio Rancho Wednesday, causing dangerous driving conditions and the sheltering in place of Rio Rancho Public Schools.

With more high winds in the forecast for this week, PNM has some helpful tips to keep everyone safe.

Proper planning can help keep PNM customers safe during strong weather.

• Wind may blow tree branches or other objects into powerlines. Never attempt to remove anything from the lines. Stay away and call us at 888-DIAL-PNM.
• Stay away from downed or sagging power lines, and consider them and anything touching them, energized and dangerous. Stay as far away from the scene as possible and immediately contact PNM at 888-DIAL-PNM.
• If a power line falls across a vehicle that you are in, stay in the car, if possible. Call 911 and wait until first responders and PNM can work together to clear the scene.

Even if the state is not under a high wind advisory, winds can still present certain safety concerns. Below are some additional tips to consider when going outside to enjoy the spring weather.

• Always fly kites, drones and model aircraft in open areas, away from power poles, overhead power lines and substations.
• Never attempt to retrieve a kite or device that is caught in a power line or that falls into a substation. Instead, call 888-DIAL-PNM.
• Keep metallic party balloons indoors as they can cause fires and power outages if released into the air.