Fredericksburg, Va. - A powerful winter storm is expected to impact much of Rappahannock Electric Cooperative’s (REC) service territory late tonight through tomorrow. REC is ready to respond to any storm-related power outages and urges its member-owners to prepare as well.
With the ground already saturated, heavy wet snow – combined with sleet and ice – could cause trees to topple onto power lines. REC’s crews are mobilized and stand ready to respond as quickly and safely as they can. Mutual aid crews are on their way so that they will be on-site and ready to assist with outage restoration beginning tomorrow morning.
Here’s what member-owners can do:
* Assemble an emergency storm kit and update your family’s emergency plan. Find a checklist at www.myrec.coop/outagecenter
* Sign up for outage text alerts by clicking the Notifications tab in your MyREC SmartHub account at myrec.smarthub.coop.
* Using your mobile device, report your outage online at www.myrec.coop/out
Any member who is dependent on medical equipment that requires electricity should take steps now to seek alternative shelter and a source of backup power, as appropriate.
An important safety reminder: Downed power lines are extremely dangerous. If you see one, stay away and call 911 or REC immediately at 1-800-552-3904.
REC provides electric service to over 169,000 connections in parts of 22 Virginia counties. With its general office in Fredericksburg, Va., the Cooperative operates and maintains more than 17,000 miles of power lines through its service area, which ranges from the Blue Ridge Mountains to the tidal waters of the Chesapeake Bay. For more information about REC, please visit www.myrec.coop. Follow REC on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.