Gibson EMC Urges Caution; 8,200 Still Without Power
Gibson Electric Membership Corporation crews are diligently working to restore power to their customer-owners. More than 12,000 customers from across the co-op‘s 2,800-mile distribution system lost power during last night‘s and this morning‘s storms. About 8,200 are still without power – some in Obion and Lake counties, but most in Gibson and Crockett counties. President and CEO Dan Rodamaker said Gibson EMC‘s employees are doing all they can to restore service as quickly as possible and crews from several neighboring are generously providing assistance. However, if you are without power and have a medical necessity for electric service, Gibson EMC encourages you to make a contingency plan now for alternate accommodations. Gibson EMC estimates that around 30 of the co-op‘s electric poles were downed and, in many cases, trees are entangled with the electric lines. Clearing an area is often necessary before repairs can be made or new lines can be constructed. Safety is a strong concern. Gibson EMC urges customers to exercise extreme caution when connecting generators. To protect yourself and others, follow these guidelines: one space· Plug appliances directly into the generator or use a heavy outdoor rated extension cord. The extension cord should be rated in watts or amps at least equal to the sum of the connected appliance loads. one space· Never connect the generator to the household wiring, as this can back feed along the power lines and electrocute anyone coming in contact with them, including lineworkers making repairs. Finally, be sure to treat all electric lines as though they are energized. Downed electric lines are extremely hazardous. Do not touch or even go near downed lines or tree limbs that have fallen onto power lines. If you see a downed line, call your local Gibson EMC customer service center and report it immediately.
