Emera Prepares for Maine Blizzard

As the first major blizzard of the 2016-2017 winter season treks toward Maine, Emera Maine’s Storm Response Team says the utility is ready for whatever comes our way.

Brad Flannery, Manager of Line & Meter Operations, says more than a foot of snow, ice, and strong gusty winds means power outages and treacherous travel conditions are possible, so field crews, customer service, dispatch, and other personnel are gearing up for what could be a major impact to the electrical system.

Advance preparations include moving internal crews to central locations ahead of the storm, fueling up trucks, snow sleds and ATV’s, stocking up on storm kits and other supplies for field crews, and more.

Flannery reminds Mainers never to touch a downed power line or a tree in contact with one. He says in recent storms there were reports of customers moving lines out of the way and driving over the top of them, something that should never be attempted under any circumstance;

Other important things to keep in mind:

• Anyone using alternate heat sources and generators is reminded to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines at all times.
• Always be sure generators and space heaters are well ventilated.
• Generators should be professionally installed to ensure they do not back-feed into the electrical system putting both the public and our employees at risk.
• Tips on how to prepare for a power outage are available at Emera Maine's website under “Outages & Restoration” and “Be Prepared”.

Outages can be reported online or by calling the Customer Contact Center at 1-855-EMERA-11 (1-855-363-7211) or 207-973-2000.

Residents can also follow Emera on Twitter.