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Outage Restoration

outage restoration processWhen you call the cooperative, we record your outage and any damage you report. Your information, along with information received from others, is entered into a computer. The information is reviewed and summarized. This helps us to map and pinpoint the trouble areas and efficiently dispatch repair crews.

We begin our restoration at the point where the power feeds into REC's system. This could be on a transmission line, at a substation, or on a main distribution line. After these have been repaired, the crews then work on remaining outage problems. Crews correct the trouble in areas that serve the greatest number of customers first and work until electricity is restored to each customer's home.

If your power is off:

  1. Check your home's breaker panel (and any outdoor disconnects) to make sure the outage is not due to a tripped breaker.
  2. Call your neighbors to see if their power is off. This will help you determine if the problem exists within your home or on our lines.
  3. If you determine the problem is outside your home, call REC. Please have the following information available when you call: account name, street address, home phone, and cause of power outage (if you know it). If you call during a time of widespread outages, an automated outage reporting system may answer your call. Listen carefully and follow the directions you hear. Call any time your power is out. Do not assume that others have reported the outage. Once you make the report try not to call REC again unless an emergency arises. Crews will be out as soon as possible and extra calls prevent those who have not reported their outage from getting through.


Extended outages
Catastrophes like ice storms and floods may cause extended outages. You can rest assured that REC personnel are working as quickly as possible to restore your electrical service.

It is wise to be prepared for an extended outage. Keep flashlights and portable radios on hand with a supply of extra batteries. Keep freezer and refrigerator doors closed to prevent food spoilage. Food will keep for long periods if doors remain closed. Don't cook inside with charcoal. Be extra careful with candles, kerosene lamps, heaters, and fireplaces.

Have a supply of water on hand if you depend on a well. If it is winter, try to keep door openings to a minimum and use blankets, sleeping bags, and extra clothes to keep warm.