With summer just around the corner, it’s important to remember severe weather can strike quickly and create a variety of dangerous situations.

With this in mind, Upper Peninsula Power Company has suggested these safety tips —

— Power lines: Always consider a power line to be energized even if it is on the ground. Do not touch a downed line or try to move it in any way. Call the police or power company as soon as possible.

— Generators: An electric generator can be helpful during a power outage. However, safety issues remain to be considered. Be sure to disconnect the house from the power company’s system. Doing this will ensure the generator cannot feed electricity back into the system and protect workers as they try to restore service, as well as prevent the flow of electricity into nearby homes.

Store fuel for generators in cool, well-ventilated spaces to lessen the chance of fire. Operate generators in ventilated spaces to guard against carbon monoxide poisoning.

— Storm Checklist: Although power company crews will work around the clock to restore service, it is possible power may be out for an extended period after a particularly severe storm.

To make outages as painless as possible, take a few minutes to assemble an emergency kit before you need it. The following are some basics items to consider — flashlights; battery-operated radio to hear weather forecasts and news bulletins; first aid kit; supply of water and non-perishable food; and specialty items such as prescriptions, baby food and warm clothing.