Delaware Electric Cooperative on standby for storm

Delaware Electric Cooperative crews are preparing for the possibility of extensive power outages as Hurricane Sandy sets her sights on Delaware. All DEC crews will be on standby this weekend to be dispatched to restore power if outages occur. Utility contractors will also be ready to help DEC respond to possible outages. If damage to the electrical system is severe, Delaware Electric Cooperative is prepared to seek assistance from neighboring electric cooperatives.

Members who live in the most rural areas served by DEC could be without power for extended periods of time if weather conditions are as severe as predicted. Hurricane or tropical storm force winds can wreak havoc on power lines and utility poles.

During an outage DEC crews work to restore power to the largest number of people first. After transmission and distribution lines are fixed, the Co-op’s crews then fix problems in smaller neighborhoods or problems at individual homes.

DEC is asking all members to prepare for the worst. Members should have an emergency kit assembled and be prepared to be without power for several days. Members with serious medical conditions, who rely on electricity to power medical equipment, should be prepared to move to a shelter or hospital during an outage. DEC cannot guarantee quick restoration to those members. Now is the time to prepare.

Members should also stay away from downed wires or damaged electrical equipment. Assume any downed wires are energized. Touching energized wires can lead to injuries and death. If you see downed wires, call DEC immediately.

To report an outage, call 855-332-9090. Live outage information can be found on our website, delaware.coop. Our outage map is also available on mobile devices. To learn more about how to prepare for an outage, go to delaware.coop/our-co-op/preparing-outage.