Take these simple steps to prep for winter storms

With the fall leaves mostly gone from the trees, use that sure sign that winter is here and it’s time to prepare your home and family for potential power outages in the dark and cold of winter.

Winter storms passing through Kentucky in recent years have caused damage to power delivery systems like substations and power lines, and have left some of our members without power for days.

While we can’t control what winter brings, know that our employees are always on alert to respond quickly and safely to repair damage to the grid when we have a severe weather event.

If you have a power outage, you can always report it 24 hours a day, seven days a week by calling 800.562.3532, via text message at 55050 (must be signed up ahead of time to use this feature) or through our smart phone app. You can check power restoration progress by visiting our website or Facebook page.

As a cooperative, we’re ready for winter storms, and we want you to be ready, too. Take precautions to safeguard you and your family in the event of an extended outage.

In your home you should have most of the following items in the event that a winter storm is forecast.

• Flashlight and extra batteries
• Battery-powered NOAA Weather Radio and portable radio to receive emergency information
• Extra food and water such as dried fruit, nuts, granola bars and other food requiring no cooking or refrigeration
• Extra prescription medicine
• Baby items such as diapers and formula
• First-aid supplies
• Heating fuel: refuel before you are empty
• Emergency heat source: fireplace, wood stove or space heater properly ventilated to prevent a fire
• Fire extinguisher, smoke alarms
• Extra pet food and warm shelter for pets
• Make sure your carbon monoxide detector is working correctly and that the outside vent is clear of leaves and debris
• If you care for someone who is medically dependent on electricity, have battery backups in place and a plan to get to a location with electricity or a generator

Last, don’t forget that when an outage occurs, it usually means power lines are down. Always assume any downed lines you see are live and therefore dangerous. Stay as far away from them as possible, and report the situation to our dispatchers by calling 800.562.3532 or a local law enforcement agency immediately.

None of us can control the weather, but we can all be prepared to handle a storm-related outage as quickly and safely as possible. Grayson RECC is ready, and we hope you will be, too.

How we restore power

Restoring power after a major storm involves more than throwing a switch or removing a tree from a line. To safely and efficiently return electrical service to the greatest number of members, Grayson RECC crews repair in order as depicted in the photo.