REC is Prepared to Respond to Outages Caused by Winter Storm Izzy

Snow, freezing rain and sleet are expected to impact much of the Rappahannock Electric Cooperative’s (REC) service territory today and into tonight.

REC has staged hundreds of REC crews, mutual aid cooperatives and contractors who stand ready to respond to any outages.

Please keep these important safety reminders top-of-mind throughout this storm:

• If you are operating a generator read all safety instructions for your model.
• Do not attempt to connect a generator to your home’s wiring. Isolate your generator by connecting appliances or other devices directly to the generator with the appropriate cords.
• Take care when fueling a generator. Never refuel the unit while it's operating.
• Provide adequate ventilation and air cooling when operating any generator to prevent overheating and the accumulation of toxic fumes. Do not install your generator in a closed area. Exhaust gases contain carbon monoxide, which is poisonous.

Downed Power Line Safety

• If you see a downed power line, move at least 10 feet away from the line and anything touching it.
• Always assume the line is energized, and report downed lines immediately to REC at 800-552-3904 or call 911.
• The human body is a ready conductor of electricity. The proper way to move away from the line is to shuffle away with small steps, keeping your feet together and on the ground at all times. This will minimize the potential for a strong electric shock. Electricity wants to move from a high voltage zone to a low voltage zone and it could do that through your body.
• Never drive over a downed power line. 

To report a power outage, please visit myrec.coop/out on your smartphone; use the MyREC SmartHub tool in your app; or call 800-552-3904.