N.C. Electric Cooperatives Stand Ready to Respond as Winter Weather Approaches

RALEIGH, N.C., Jan. 5, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- North Carolina's electric cooperatives are monitoring conditions and are ready to respond if power outages occur as a result of winter weather.

Frozen precipitation and frigid temperatures are predicted across much of North Carolina Friday night and this weekend. Electric cooperative staff and crews are in place and prepared to respond if wintery conditions cause power outages. Freezing rain and heavy snow are the greatest concerns for the electric cooperatives, as ice-laden branches that touch or fall on power lines are a major cause of outages during winter storms.

Now is the time for electric cooperative members to prepare. Before the storm hits, stock up on supplies, charge cell phones and back-up batteries, and make sure you have a way to stay warm if the power goes out. Make an emergency kit that includes the following items: extra blankets, flashlights, batteries, a battery-operated radio, first-aid kit, manual can opener, medicine, canned food and bottled water. {Video tips here.}

Electric cooperative members are asked to report power outages or any dangerous situations caused by the storm to their local electric cooperative. For outage reporting phone numbers and the counties served by each co-op, refer to www.ncelectriccooperatives.com/co-ops/coops.htm.

Stay tuned to Facebook and Twitter for the latest updates and safety tips in the event of power outages in electric cooperative service territory this weekend.

North Carolina's electric cooperatives provide power to more than 2.5 million people in 93 of the state's 100 counties, primarily in rural areas.

SOURCE North Carolina's Electric Cooperatives

Related Links

http://www.ncelectriccooperatives.com