Philly snow storm: Who to call for which emergencies, from downed trees to power lines and more

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As the Philadelphia region prepares for a massive winter storm, state and local emergency management officials are encouraging residents to be prepared.

Forecasters say the combination of heavy snow followed by sleet and freezing rain could result in downed trees and power outages, among other issues.

Here’s what to know about who to contact for which scenarios:

Key numbers to know

• 911: Life-threatening emergencies
• 211: Shelter, food, utilities and recovery resources
• 988: Mental health crises

Pennsylvania officials urge residents to only call 911 for life-threatening incidents like vehicle crashes or serious medical situations. If residents are unable to call 911, they may text 911 instead.

PECO

PECO outages can be reported online, by using the PECO mobile app, by texting ADDOUTAGE to MYPECO (697326) or by calling PECO directly at 1-800-841-4141.

Residents who smell natural gas or see downed power lines are urged to leave the area immediately and call 1-800-841-4141.

PGW

Philadelphia Gas Works’ 24-hour emergency hotline will remain open for emergency calls. All gas leaks or gas-related emergencies should be reported immediately by calling 215-235-1212.

Pennsylvania traffic and transit

• Road conditions and travel restrictions are communicated via 511PA and the 511PA app.
• Drivers can sign up for personalized 511PA alerts.
• Residents may call 511 for updates.

SEPTA

SEPTA riders should check SEPTA.org/alerts or the SEPTA app for the latest service updates.

Philadelphia emergencies and severe weather

Residents can sign up for ReadyPhila alerts online or by texting ReadyPhila to 888-777.

Most alerts are available in 11 languages: English, French, Arabic, Russian, Spanish, Vietnamese, Simplified Chinese, Haitian Creole, Portuguese, Swahili and American Sign Language.

311

Philadelphia’s 311 call center will be operational during the storm, but requests won’t be processed until the snow emergency is over.

Residents can make 311 requests through Philly311’s online portal, the Philly311 app or by emailing philly311@phila.gov. City officials encourage residents to use the app to be able to attach pictures.

If a tree falls during a storm and poses an immediate safety threat, residents are urged to call 911. Otherwise, residents may call the city’s non-emergency number, 311. Arborists from Philadelphia Parks & Recreation are on-call to respond to tree emergencies.