How power companies will respond to first major snowfall

As business’ and residents alike prepare for the first big snowfall of the year, power companies are gearing up as well.  In the event of a power outage, Delmarva Power says their priority is restoring service to emergency facilities like police and fire stations, and water treatment facilities as well.  They then move to more populated areas and then follow by restoring service to more rural areas.

Delmarva Power and Delaware Electric Co-op are asking their customers, especially those along the coast to prepare for the worst.  Delmarva power spokesman Matt Likovich says that snow isn’t necessarily the problem, it’s the high winds that knock down trees that fall on wires.  Added heavy snow and ice make conditions more treacherous.

In the event of an emergency that would require more help, most power companies participate in what is called mutual assistance.  Power companies who are not affected by the weather will come in to help service the area. 

The local power companies are also urging people to prepare emergency kits – kits that include: Coolers, ice, bottled water, non perishable foods, flashlights, batteries, and a first aid kit.

To report outages call your local power provider:

Delmarva Power: 1-800-898-8045

Delaware Electric Co-op: 855-332-9090

Choptank Electric: 1-800-410-4790