Talquin Electric wants to remind the Member community…
1. If a hurricane does hit our area, it can cause an even greater gas shortage and limit cellular service. For everyone’s safety, we encourage our Members to greatly limit their driving and cell phone usage so emergency responders can respond as safely and quickly as possible.
2. When power is getting restored, don’t forget to check for flipped breakers…just in case.
3. Watch out for working crews – Move Over, it’s the law, If you have locked gates, please unlock to allow crews access to the equipment.
4. As we begin to wrap up our storm restoration, we want to make sure Members are aware of the damaged equipment homeowners are responsible for having repaired. If you have a damaged meter pole, pipe mast/weather-head, or meter can – you will need to contact a licensed electrician about getting everything repaired. Traditionally, a county inspection is not required unless you are upgrading your service. Once repairs are made, Talquin will be able to restore power if there is no other damage to equipment leading up to your location. Reminder: We want to make sure Members are aware of the damaged equipment homeowners are responsible for having repaired. If you have a damaged meter pole, pipe mast/weather-head, or meter can – you will need to contact a licensed electrician about getting everything repaired. Traditionally, a county inspection is not required unless you are upgrading your service. Once repairs are made, Talquin will be able to restore power if there is no other damage to equipment leading up to your location.
5. Generator Safety: Use heavy-duty extension cords-look for exposed wires or worn shielding, Never run inside a building-ensure proper ventilation, Never add fuel to a generator while it’s running, always have an approved fire extinguisher nearby, don’t over load the generator…Visit www.talquinlectric.com for more information.
6. Always avoid downed power lines – the wire could be live, which could be deadly for those nearby. Quickly report downed lines to your local electric cooperative. Report downed lines by calling: 1-866-899-4832 (Automated System), 1-888-802-1832 (Live Operator) or 911. "Watch for power lines during post storm clean up. Anything near fallen lines can be energized!", and "If caught inside a vehicle with a power line that has fallen on it, wait inside for help and warn others to stay away"… Downed Power Lines-Stay Safe Near Downed Lines!
7. Heavy rains often cause flooding in lowland areas, homes, and basements. Be alert to electrical equipment that could be energized and in contact with water, along with other potential hazards that can create a serious danger of electrocution. During a storm, drive only if necessary and avoid flooded roads. You won’t know the depth of the water nor the condition of the road underneath. Turn Around, Don’t Drown.
Facts: 1 Foot of Water Can Float a Car, 2 Feet of Water Can Carry Car Away, 6” of Water Can Cause Car to Stall.
8. How to Report Outage
o Report via Text - Text #OUTAGE to 85700 to report electric outages.
o Report via Phone
Automated System: 1-866-899-4832If not registered, go here now. Live Operator: 1-888-802-1832
o Talquin Electric Members can report an electric outage by calling 1-866-899-4832 (Automated System) or 1-888-802-1832 (Live Operator) or text #OUTAGE to 85700 from any registered cell phone. Sign up for text alerts by visiting www.talquinelectric.com .
o Due to high volume of calls during major events, call wait times may be extended.
9. We will have crews working in all four counties to get all extensive outages restored. Please note, during a Hurricane we fix the issue that will get the most people restored at once. We have down lines, broken poles, etc. all over the service area - that may not be within your sight, but still affect the lines that feed your location. We appreciate your understanding and patience as our crews work as quickly and Safely as possible. Talquin is providing a safe work environment during the hurricane Hermine restoration that will allow our crew to restore power to our Members in a timely and safe manner.
10. Due to large number of individual outages and the amount of damage, restoration is taking longer than anticipated. At this time, we expect all outages to be restored before midnight tonight. Thank you again for your patience.
11. Talquin will provide updates regarding storm response and repair, as well as outage updates on Talquin’s website as well as its social media outlets.
· Check your Homeowners Insurance to find out if it covers spoiled food after a power outage? In some cases, you may be able to get reimbursed for your loss by your insurance company, but it's important to understand what your insurance policy does and does not cover. Insurance
o Take pictures after storm for documentation
o Have documentation in order before storm
o Flood insurance – are you covered?
o Cash is King
o Donate Blood before huge storm
o Evacuation Plan
o Hurricane Watch vs Warning – know the difference
o Maintain Your Drain
o NOAA weather radio
o Refrigerator/Freezer setting before storm
· Wind Hazards
o Remove items from yard that can blow around
o Trim limbs, etc. before storm