NOW THAT SUMMER IS IN full swing, like many of you, I welcome more opportunities to be outdoors, enjoy the warmer weather and simply slow down a bit to enjoy life. But summer months also make conditions right for dangerous storms like hurricanes and tornadoes.

These potential weather events can cause damage to our electrical system, but I want you to know that Palmetto Electric crews are ready and standing by to respond should power outages occur in our area.

When major storms knock out power, our line crews take all necessary precautions before they get to work. I would encourage you to also practice safety and preparedness to protect your family during major storms and outages.

• Stock your pantry with a few days’ supply of non-perishable food, water and other essentials (i.e., diapers and toiletries). In the case of a hurricane evacuation, fill your gas tank and have cash on hand.
• Prepare your home by securing any loose outdoor items, trimming limbs that may damage the home and boarding windows if necessary.
• Make sure your prescriptions are current and ensure your first aid kit is stocked with medical essentials.
• Organize vital documents in a safe space, and make sure emergency supplies like flashlights and batteries 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. Listen to local news and radio for storm and emergency information, and check our website, palmetto.coop, and social media channels for power restoration updates. Outages can be reported to (866) 445-5551 or through MyEnergy Online at palmetto.coop or the MyEnergy mobile app.

After the storm, avoid downed power lines and walking through flooded areas where power lines could be submerged. Allow ample room for utility crews to safely perform their jobs, including on your property. If you see a line down, call (800) 922-5551 or 911 immediately.

Advance planning for severe storms or other emergencies can reduce stress caused by the weather event and can lessen the impact of the storm’s effects. I hope we don’t experience severe weather this storm season, but we must be prepared. At Palmetto Electric, we recommend that you act today because there is power in planning.  From our co-op family to yours, we hope you continue to have a safe and wonderful summer.

PALMETTO ELECTRIC’S OFFICIAL EMERGENCY RADIO STATIONS
HOT 98.3 (WGCO) | Rock 106.1 (WFXH) |Rewind 107.9 (WRWN) | G 100.1 (WXYY) |Bob 106.9 (WUBB) | The Island AM 1130/FM 96.1 (WHHW)