From the March issue of The Tennessee Magazine, "Between the Lines" written by SVEC President/CEO Mike Partin
News From Your Community
STORM SAFETY & PREPAREDNESS
I’m sure you’ve heard the old saying, “March comes in like a lion and goes out like a lamb.” That is certainly true for the weather in the Sequachee Valley Electric Cooperative service area. We can have snow and ice one day and a few days later, warm sunny days with flowers blooming. Why, with our mountains and valleys, it can even be happening on the same day!
It is important to remember that with rapidly changing weather patterns, the chances for severe weather such as ice storms, flooding rains and high winds are possible. Along with the severe weather comes the likelihood of associated power outages.
As in facing any unpleasant situation, the best defense is a good offense. We at SVEC encourage you to be prepared for an extended power outage, especially during the seasons when severe weather is common.
Please consider these tips to keep your family safe when severe weather threatens: Be prepared. Don’t allow yourself to be caught off guard. Have a way to receive alerts when they are issued — either a NOAA Weather Radio or a cellphone that receives alerts. Postpone outdoor activities if thunderstorms are likely. Have a place prepared for you and your family to shelter when the need arises — you don’t want to have to empty out a closet when time is of the essence. An emergency kit that includes a radio, flashlight, batteries, first-aid kit, water, food that does not have to be cooked and medicine should also be ready to go at a moment’s notice.
During cold weather, close off part of your home and use a safe alternative to heat a small area of your home where your family can congregate until electric service is restored. If you use a generator, be sure to follow all safety precautions. For more tips, visit svalleyec.com.
Act quickly. If you hear thunder, you are close enough to be in danger from lightning. If your area is under a severe weather watch, pay attention. If a warning is issued, act immediately. Take shelter in a substantial building or in an interior closet. Get out of mobile homes that might blow over in high winds. Shutter windows and close outside doors securely. Do not take a bath or use plumbing. If you are driving, exit the road and find a safe place to ride out the storm.
Be smart after the storm. Be aware of hazards and debris left by the storm. Never touch downed power lines or anything in contact with downed lines. If it is dark when you are inspecting your home, use a flashlight rather than a candle to reduce the risk of fires or explosions. Be sure your family is safe, and then look for opportunities to help friends and neighbors.
Regardless of what the weather brings, our crews are prepared to respond 24 hours a day, seven days a week. We take seriously our responsibility to keep the power on and restore service quickly.
See pages 22 and 23 to see the steps that are necessary for restoring power and additional information for dealing with a power outage.
You can report an outage by calling your local SVEC office or 888-421- 7832, with our mobile app for iPhone or Android or through our website, svalleyec.com.