Baldwin EMC gives safety tips for electrical service as Sally heads toward Gulf Coast

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SUMMERDALE, Alabama — Baldwin EMC is making final preparations for the arrival of Tropical Storm Sally and all crews are on emergency storm alert status.

“While we don’t expect at this time a direct hit to our area, we must not take Sally lightly,” said Baldwin EMC Vice President of Corporate Services and Public Relations Mark Ingram. “Based on the latest track, storm surge inundation of 4 to 6 feet is expected for the coastal region and we should expect tropical storm force winds and dangerous flooding. This means members should expect some power outages due to flying debris coming in contact with powerlines, and trees being uprooted and falling into lines. As always, BEMC crews will be ready to respond to outages before and during the storm when it is safe to do so. Members should take these last few hours to prepare their home, assemble an emergency kit and know their evacuation routes.”

Additionally, the cooperative reminds everyone to take precautions and offers these tips for safety during power outages:

  • As the storm approaches, Baldwin EMC crews will continue to provide restoration service until weather conditions require them to stop for safety reasons.
  • Members who depend on electric-powered healthcare equipment should immediately seek alternative shelter or obtain a backup source of power for their equipment. While Baldwin EMC is committed to restoring power as quickly and safely as possible, it cannot guarantee uninterrupted service.
  • Members can expect to experience flickering lights as wind speed increases with the storm’s arrival. Sustained outages may begin early during the storm’s onset. Restoration efforts will begin when it is safe for crews to return to the field.
  • If you use a generator, keep it outside. Using generators inside can have tragic consequences. Fumes produced can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning. Generators should only be used in well-ventilated areas outside the home. In addition, never add fuel while a generator is running. Turn it off and let it cool first. Do not connect a portable generator to your home’s wiring. Connect it only to appliances, and only use approved properly-sized power cords.
  • Stay away from fallen power lines. Assume that any line is conducting electricity. During the storm, call Baldwin EMC ONLY to report an emergency, such as downed, sparking power lines.
  • Baldwin EMC will begin damage assessment immediately following the storm, including, if necessary, seeking help from other cooperatives.
  • Extensive and prolonged power outages are expected in hardest hit areas. Information about restoration efforts will be provided as soon as it is available. Again, call Baldwin EMC only to report emergencies.

Following a storm, remain indoors until the “all clear” notice is given by the emergency management system or your local law enforcement.

To report a power outage to Baldwin EMC:

  • Call 251-989-6247 or 800-837-3374.
  • Go online at baldwinemc.com/outage-center, click the interactive outage map, and log in using your Facebook account.
  • Text “Outage” to 85700 and select the address where the outage is located. To opt in for outage texting, text “Baldwin” to 85700.

For the most up-to-date outage information, follow Baldwin EMC on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter or visit baldwinemc.com.

Baldwin EMC is a member-owned electric cooperative serving more than 80,000 accounts in Baldwin and Monroe Counties in southwest Alabama, including Alabama’s Gulf Coast. This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer.