The service territory of Blue Ridge Mountain Electric Membership Cooperative (BRMEMC) spans five counties and is approximately the size of Rhode Island. Weather in this neck of the woods – North Georgia and Western North Carolina – can be very unpredictable. Storms with heavy winds, lightning and/or snow and ice can disrupt the flow of energy powering our homes, schools, and businesses. Dangerous weather events can cause hazardous road conditions, downed power lines and extended power outages.
Follow these tips to stay safe during a power outage:
Before the Storm
- Create an emergency kit. A loss of power can leave you without heat, running water or a way to cook food. It’s a good idea to put together needed supplies in case of an emergency. See recommendation below.
- Fill your bathtub and spare containers with water.
- Turn your refrigerator to its coldest setting. If the power goes out, this will keep foods fresh longer. If your freezer is relatively empty, fill plastic soda bottles or other plastic containers with water and put them in the freezer. During an extended outage, transfer some of the containers to the refrigerator.
- Consider alternate heating sources as backup to electric heating.
- If you or a family member depends on life support, inform BRMEMC well before a power outage ever occurs by completing this form MEDICAL-EXEMPTION-FORM.pdf Consider making alternate arrangements for power if it is critical in sustaining life.
If There is an Outage
- Report outages and downed lines to BRMEMC.
- Treat all downed lines as dangerous. Always assume fallen power lines are energized and stay at least 10 feet away from lines and any nearby objects they may be touching. Never attempt to move power lines. Never touch a person or object that is in contact with a downed line; call 911.
- Unplug everything inside your home. As electricity is restored, it may create power surges that can destroy electronics. Leave one light switched on so you know when power has been restored.
- Don’t use candles. Flashlights and battery-powered lights produce more light and won’t cause accidental fires.
- Keep the refrigerator(s) and freezer(s) closed. The less you open refrigerator and freezer doors, the longer your food will stay cold.
Note: If you choose to install a generator to energize your refrigerator or other necessary electric devices, please ensure it is properly installed with a double-pole and double-throw breaker. If you use a portable generator consider connecting a GenerLink™ – a meter collar device. For more information on GenerLink™ visit brmemc.com/value-added-services/.
Preparing a 72-hour Emergency Kit
A basic emergency supply kit could include the following items:
- Battery-powered NOAA Weather Radio.
- Flashlight and extra batteries.
- Cellphone with car charger, battery pack or solar charger.
- First-aid kit including prescription medications.
- Water: 1 gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation.
- Non-perishable, ready-to-eat, food and a manual can opener.
- Charcoal grill with charcoal and a lighter.
- Tools: wrench, pliers, hammer and screwdriver.
- Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person.
- Formula and extra diapers for infants/toddlers.
- Photocopies of important family documents (insurance policies, identification and bank account records) in a waterproof, portable container.
- Towelette wipes and garbage bags for sanitation.
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap and other personal hygiene items.
- Pet food and extra water for your pet.
During power outages, BRMEMC crews battle the elements to find problem areas and restore service as quickly and safely as possible. However, preparing ahead of time for outages can help ease the burden when the lights go out.