Widespread Power Outages Continue
People’s Energy Cooperative is still experiencing widespread power outages throughout our service territory due to the extreme weather event last night. Crews are currently in the field working to restore power as quickly and safely as possible and crews that worked last night are also returning to work. We also have crews on their way from neighboring utilities to aid in power restoration. Please use caution, stay away from downed power lines, and give our crews plenty of room to work. Timely updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
“The safety of our members and our lineworkers are of the utmost importance. We are currently taking all possible measures to restore power and ensure the safety of our members, while also considering the safety of our lineworkers who are out working in these adverse conditions,” stated President and CEO, Mike Henke.
One of the largest portions of our service territory without power is the City of Stewartville. Due to extensive and severe damage, those in Stewartville should expect to be without power until at least mid-day tomorrow, possibly longer. We have released one of our contractors to assist in the restoral of the transmission lines feeding the City of Stewartville.
Members experiencing a power outage should take these actions to stay safe and comfortable:
• Stay inside and dress warm in layered clothing• Close off unneeded rooms• When using an alternative heat source, follow operating instructions, use fire safeguards, and be sure to properly ventilate. Always keep a multipurpose, dry-chemical fire extinguisher nearby and know how to properly use it• Place a rolled-up rug or heavy towel in front of the bottom of doors to minimize any cold drafts• Cover windows at night• Keep a close eye on the temperature in your home. Infants and people over the age of 65 are more susceptible to the cold. Stay with friends or relatives or go to a shelter if you cannot keep your home warm.
Members should report any outages through SmartHub, outage texting (if you are registered), or by calling (800) 214-2694. Broken poles and downed power lines should also be reported by calling the Cooperative directly.