LCEC: ‘We do not rest until the lights are back on for all members’

Jul 14, 2023

Should scattered outages occur, LCEC has a strong restoration plan in place to reenergize members as quickly and safely as possible, utility officials said Monday.

“This restoration plan includes maintaining relationships with power line and tree-trimming contractors, fuel companies, material vendors, food service vendors, other cooperatives and local agencies for mutual aid. In addition, each of the more than 400 LCEC employees play a critical role in the restoration plan. Every employee puts their typical job responsibilities on hold to pitch in during restoration. We do not rest until the lights are back on for all members!,” co-op officials said in a prepared release.

Restoration Priorities

The LCEC restoration plan outlines priorities of electric restoration during large power outages. This plan first calls for restoration of critical circuits that power essential services such as hospitals, traffic signals, shelters, law enforcement. Next, power is restored to the largest number of customers possible. The last to be restored are individual services in small pockets or services that need to be reconnected after repair to their home electrical system.

LCEC does not disconnect power before a storm.

“We let Mother Nature run her course, and begin to restore power to impacted areas once winds are at a safe level to work,” officials said.

How customers should prepare for outages

-Ensure a back-up telephone other than a cordless or telephone that is dependent on electricity.

-Have a battery-powered radio on hand and a supply of fresh batteries to stay aware of news and other information.

-Keep a flashlight and extra batteries handy.

What to do when the lights go out

-Help keep the LCEC telephone lines clear for emergency calls. Only call LCEC at 656-2300 to report downed power lines.

-Visually check the weather-head (on the roof where your service drop connects to the pole) and the meter box to make sure it is not damaged.

-Any damage to the home’s electric system must be repaired by a licensed electrician and inspected by a designated agency before power can be restored.

-Turn off appliances. This will protect them when service is restored, prevent electrical fires and lessen the chances of circuit overload when service is restored. Leave one light on to serve as a visual signal that power has been restored.

Storm Safety Tips

-Stay clear of downed power lines. They may still be energized and dangerous. Puddles of water contacting downed lines are just as dangerous.

-Don’t trim trees or remove debris located near downed power lines. If you must remove debris from your home, don’t pile it under or near electrical lines or equipment.

-Residents on life support must have an alternate plan in place to ensure the continuity of life-support needs. This may include making special arrangements to spend time with a friend or relative during an outage or using a back-up generator.

-If operating a portable generator, keep it outside and in an open area. Carbon monoxide emissions can be harmful. Follow all instructions regarding safe operation. Do not connect the generator directly to the main electrical panel. If installed incorrectly, power could flow into outside lines and cause injury to the owner, neighbors or utility crews working in the area.

-Please do not detain LCEC employees or contractors while they are working to restore power. This can be distracting, can cause an accident and impedes the process.

LCEC urges all residents of SWFL to take this time to prepare your family and home for Tropical Storm Idalia. Download the LCEC Hurricane Guide at lcec.net to aid in preparation.

“LCEC thanks members in advance for their patience and confidence in us!” the release states.

Source: LCEC