Contact: NOVEC Public Relations, 1-888-335-0500, customerservice@novec.com
NORTHERN VIRGINIA — Northern Virginia Electric Cooperative is preparing for Hurricane Sandy and possible power outages. NOVEC urges customers to prepare now.
“We may have widespread power outages starting on Monday if Sandy’s winds toss trees on power lines,” explains Larry Shaffer, Electric System Operations vice president. “NOVEC crews are assembling equipment and supplies, and additional contract crews are already scheduled to be on NOVEC’s system by Sunday. Our utility trucks are getting ready to roll, and all employees are on alert.”
Shaffer says customers should review their own storm-preparation plans to be ready for high winds, intense rainfall and the loss of power. “Make sure NOVEC has your current phone number. Your correct number will expedite outage reporting and power restoration. If you use a cellphone, call us at 703-335-0500 or 1-888-335-0500 to associate your number with your account.”
Shaffer says customers should report outages by phone, but they can get updates and information on the Co-op’s mobile website, www.novec.com/mobile, or with NOVEC’s new smartphone application, available at http://www.novec.com/contact_us/apps.cfm. “Customers can follow what’s happening on Facebook and Twitter,” notes Shaffer, “but they should not report outages via social media. Call us instead.”
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, fresh batteries, battery-operated radio, 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.
- 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.
- Only open freezers and refrigerators 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.
If you see downed power lines and poles, STAY AWAY! Water on the ground — even damp pavement — and debris near power lines could be energized and deadly. Notify NOVEC immediately!
