With predicted extreme winter weather conditions, preparation now can make a big difference.
Stay Informed
- Monitor local weather updates
- Follow your cooperative updates at www.sec.coop
Power & Communication
- Fully charge cell phones, battery packs, and laptops
- Keep car chargers available as a backup
- Set phones to low-power mode if outages occur
- Check generator fuel supply levels
Lighting & Safety
- Have flashlights ready in main living areas
- Keep extra batteries on hand
- Avoid candles when possible, to reduce fire risk
Food & Water
- It is recommended to store at least one gallon of water per person per day
- Stock easy-to-prepare foods that don’t require cooking
- Keep a manual can opener available
- Limit the amount of time refrigerators and freezers are opened
Heating & Cold Weather Safety
- Close blinds and curtains to help retain heat
- Block drafts around doors and windows
- Keep interior doors closed to retain warmth in main living areas
Personal & Family Readiness
- Have extra blankets, warm clothing, gloves, and hats accessible
- Keep medications and medical equipment fully charged
- Make plans for anyone who relies on electricity for medical needs
- Have an emergency kit ready
Pets, Livestock & Neighbors
- Bring pets indoors and ensure adequate food and water
- Prepare shelter and water access for livestock
- Check on elderly neighbors or those who may need assistance
Travel & Vehicles
- Avoid travel during heavy snow or ice if possible
- Keep vehicles fueled and stocked with emergency supplies
Safety is our top priority. We’ll continue to share updates as the forecast becomes clearer.
Please stay weather-aware and take time now to prepare.
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How has SEC prepared for this storm?
As we prepare for this weekend’s winter storm, Southside Electric Cooperative (SEC) has taken steps to be ready to respond safely and efficiently.
CREW & PERSONNEL READINESS – In total, more than 105 personnel and crews have been requested or staged in preparation for this storm to support potential restoration efforts across our service area, including SEC’s normal operations as detailed below.
STAGED RESOURCES – The following resources are staged or expected to be staged on our system in preparation for this storm:
CONTRACT & MUTUAL AID CREWS
- 7 Contract Line Crews (pole replacement crews) ~35 personnel
- 10 Mutual Aid Bucket Crews (line repair crews) ~20 personnel
- 22 Vegetation Crews (tree removal crews) ~50 personnel
TRACK MACHINES
- 7 additional machines requested, bringing the total to 8 on our system
- These will assist with pole replacements and difficult ground conditions
SEC CREWS & CREW SCOUTS
- 25 SEC crews and scouts
- ~80 personnel staged throughout the service area for restoration activity throughout the storm period
MATERIALS & LOGISTICS – To support restoration efforts, we have also:
- Established 2 additional field material staging areas for poles, in addition to our 4 district warehouses
- Prepped and fully stocked our warehouses with essential materials needed for storm response and repairs
ONGOING ASSESSMENT
As forecasts are updated, personnel levels and mutual aid assistance will continue to be re-evaluated, and additional resources will be requested if conditions warrant.
This level of preparation reflects the potential impact of the forecasted storm and our commitment to being ready to serve our members safely. We will continue monitoring conditions and providing updates as the situation evolves.
Stay safe out there and be weather aware!