Weather events can cause damage to our distribution system, but co-op crews are standing by to respond should power outages occur. When storms knock out power, line crews take all necessary precautions before they get to work on any downed lines. And, in the event of an outage, you also should practice safety and emergency preparedness to protect your family. The Federal Emergency Management Agency recommends preparing for storms and other disasters with these basic steps:
- Stock your pantry with a three-day supply of nonperishable food, such as canned goods, energy bars, peanut butter, powdered milk, instant coffee, water, and other essentials like diapers and toiletries.
- Confirm that you have adequate sanitation and hygiene supplies, including towelettes, soap and hand sanitizer.
- Ensure your first-aid kit is stocked with pain relievers, bandages and other medical essentials, and make sure your prescriptions are current.
- Set aside basic household items you will need, including flashlights, batteries, a manual can opener, and a battery-powered radio or TV.
- Organize emergency supplies so they are easily accessible in one location.
- In the event of a prolonged power outage, turn off major appliances, TVs, computers and other sensitive electronics. This will help avert damage from a power surge and will also help prevent overloading the circuits during power restoration. Leave one light on so you will know when power is restored. If you plan to use a small generator, make sure it’s rated to handle the amount of power you will need, and always review the manufacturer’s instructions to operate it safely.
- Listen to local news or a weather radio for storm and emergency information and check our website at FarmersElectric.coop for outage updates. Outage information may also be obtained by text message. To enroll in Text Alerts, text FEC to 85700. A cell phone number must be on file to complete the registration process.
TAKE CHARGE.
Download our Emergency Planning PDF from the Resource Section of the Service Hub.
