Press Room

Press and news resources from JWEMC.

February 14, 2021

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 

Joe Wheeler EMC prepares for winter storm

 

With forecasts of up to a half-inch of freezing rain accumulating over the next two days, the probability for power outages is high, and the management and employees of JWEMC have been busy getting ready.

 

Sunday, Joe Wheeler EMC linemen took work trucks home to have assets spread throughout the service area. JWEMC also has contract crews who have been working in the area on standby should they be needed.

 

"We want everyone to know that we're watching this storm and are prepared to do everything in our power to repair any damage as quickly and safely as possible," says JWEMC Director of Communications Michael Cornelison. "We ask our members to please be patient in the event of a major outage. Our number one priority is the safety of our employees and members, and ice storms present another challenge to an already dangerous job." With that in mind, here are some things you can do in case of an outage:

  • Stay home if possible. The more people out on icy roads, the more likelihood of an accident causing more damage or slowing down recovery.
  • NEVER touch or approach downed powerlines. While it may look like the power is out, you do not know for sure. Call JWEMC or 911 and tell us where the downed lines are, and we will get someone out as quickly as possible.
  • If you use a portable generator, do not connect it to your house unless you have had a licensed electrician install the equipment necessary to connect emergency generators to your home safely. Doing so can cause a dangerous back feed that can severely injure or even kill linemen working to restore power.
  • If you have a medical condition requiring electricity, please be sure and have a backup plan in place. Restoring power after an ice storm can take longer than usual, and you need to be sure you have everything you need in case that happens.

Joe Wheeler EMC asks that if you do have an outage to be sure and call 256-552-2300, or go to www.jwemc.coop/textemail-outage to learn how to text or email your outage info to us. You can also keep up with outage and storm information by following our Facebook page at facebook.com/JoeWheelerEMC or Twitter @JWEMC. You can find our live outage map at www.jwemc.coop.

 

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For additional information, contact Michael Cornelison at 256-552-2355 or email mcornelison@jwemc.org. Outage information is listed at www.jwemc.coop.

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