Central Electric prepared as Hurricane Hermine approaches

Central Electric crews are on standby to respond to outages that may occur due to heavy rain and wind caused by Hurricane Hermine. As of Thursday morning, forecasts remain uncertain of the exact path Hermine make take. However, some forecasts still project a possible impact in our area, including several inches of rain as well as high winds. A large amount of rain and wind from this storm could possibly result in significant outages across our area.

Regardless, Central Electric is prepared to respond to outages that may occur due to the inclement weather. Everyone is encouraged to prepare for significant rain and wind ahead of time, keeping safety as the top priority. Use the following tips to remain safe before and after a storm:

Before:

  • Check your disaster supplies and replace or restock as needed. Make sure you have batteries prepared for radios and flashlights.
  • Bring in anything that could possibly be picked up and thrown by high winds.
  • Make sure all electronic devices are fully charged ahead of time.
  • Talk with members of your household and have an evacuation plan prepared.
  • If you plan to use a portable generator, make sure it is installed by a licensed electrician. Power from generators can back-feed along power lines and electrocute anyone coming in contact with them, including co-op line workers making repairs.

After:

  • Avoid downed or dangling power lines and report them to Central Electric immediately. Treat all downed lines as if they are energized; never assume that the line is dead.
  • Stay away from flooded areas, power lines could be submerged and still energized.
  • Stay alert for flooded areas and never attempt to drive through high-water.
  • Keep refrigerators and freezers closed as much as possible so your food will last longer in the event of a power outage. After a power outage, thoroughly inspect perishable food and throw out any spoiled items.
  • Inspect your home for any damage and take good pictures for insurance purposes.
  • After the storm, drive only if necessary to keep roads clear for emergency personnel and utility workers.

Should weather conditions deteriorate in our area, crews are prepared to handle any outage situations that may occur. Please visit Central Electric’s Outage Center to view an outage or for information on reporting an outage. Outages can be reported 24-hours a day by calling 1-877-766-6769.