Contact: NOVEC Public Relations, 1-888-335-0500, customerservice@novec.com
No System Damage from Earthquake
NORTHERN VIRGINIA — The Northern Virginia Electric Cooperative is preparing for Hurricane Irene and possible power outages. NOVEC urges customers to be prepared.
“We were expecting a hurricane this week – not an earthquake!” exclaimed Allen Barbee, Electric System Operations vice president. “After the quake, we inspected our electric distribution system. It’s sound. Now we’re in storm preparation mode. Crews are assembling necessary equipment and supplies, and our utility trucks are ready to roll.”
Barbee says customers should review their own storm preparation plans and be prepared for abundant amounts of water.
Prepare for a Hurricane and Possible Power Outages
- Designate the safest shelter location. Be prepared to leave a mobile home for better protection. Develop a plan for someone disabled.
- Have an emergency kit with non-perishable food, water, flashlights, battery-operated radio and extra batteries, lanterns, canned fuel, matches, and first aid. If applicable, have enough prescription drugs, pet food, and baby-care items.
- Have identification and documentation ready to grab. Keep Social Security information; birth certificates; home, car, and life insurance files; and other important documents in a water-proof file box.
- Cordless phones do not work when power is out; keep cell phones charged.
- Make sure NOVEC has your current phone number to expedite outage reporting and restoration. Associate a cell phone number with your account.
- Before a storm hits, unplug TVs, DVD/ VCR players, microwave oven, and computers to protect them from power surges and lightning strikes.
- Call NOVEC at 703-335-0500 or 1-888-335-0500, or report the outage online at www.novec.com if you have access. The Outage Center will provide updates.
- If you see downed power lines and poles, stay away. Even debris near power lines could be energized. Notify NOVEC immediately.
- Open freezers and refrigerators only when necessary.
- Use portable generators, camp stoves, or grills outdoors to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Alternatively, heat food in a chafing dish or fondue pot over canned fuel.
