by Zac Perkins, CEO
I can’t stress enough the importance of our members preparing themselves for the unexpected. Potential weather events like ice storms, high winds, and blizzards can wreak havoc on our electrical system. In recent years, Tri-County Electric Cooperative (TCEC) has done everything reasonably possible to make our electrical system more resilient and reliable. Even then, we cannot eliminate all risks to the system. Our crews are ready to respond should power outages occur in our area.
We don’t know what to expect from the weather this winter, other than it will be unpredictable. I encourage you to have a plan and be prepared for unexpected outages. Ready.gov provides some helpful tips to prepare for power outages and winter weather.
Have Supplies on Hand
Take an inventory of the items you need that rely on electricity. Plan for batteries and other alternative power sources to meet your needs when the power goes out, such as a portable charger or power bank. Have flashlights for every household member. Determine whether your home phone will work in a power outage and how long battery backup will last.
Know Your Medical Needs
Talk to your medical provider about a power outage plan for medical devices powered by electricity and refrigerated medicines. Find out how long medication can be stored at higher temperatures and get specific guidance for any medications that are critical for life.
Food Storage
Have enough nonperishable food and water. Keep freezers and refrigerators closed. The refrigerator will keep food cold for about four hours. A full freezer will keep the temperature for about 48 hours. Use coolers with ice if necessary. Monitor temperatures with a thermometer. Throw out food if the temperature is 40 degrees or higher.
Using Appliances During Power Outages
Install carbon monoxide detectors with battery backup in central locations on every level of your home to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Generators, camp stoves, or charcoal grills should always be used outdoors and at least 20 feet away from windows. Never use a gas stovetop or oven to heat your home. Turn off or disconnect appliances, equipment, or electronics. Power may return with momentary surges or spikes that can cause damage.
If you do use a generator, be sure it is properly grounded, and NEVER plug the generator into a wall outlet. Only a licensed electrician should connect a generator to a main electrical panel by installing the proper equipment, such as a double-throw switch. If the generator is not connected correctly, it could cause power to backfeed on power lines that lineworkers believe are de-energized, risking their lives.
Connect with TCEC
Download the SmartHub app to register your electric account and be prepared to easily report a power outage. Follow us on social media to see the latest updates during a storm.
I hope we don’t experience severe weather this winter, but we can never predict Mother Nature’s plans. At TCEC, we recommend that you act today because there is power in planning. From our co-op family to yours, we hope you have a safe and wonderful winter.