CCEC is closely monitoring the forecast of this weekend's storm; based on the latest briefing from the National Weather Service MHX/Newport, significant snowfall and gusty conditions are expected throughout our service territory beginning Saturday.
In advance of the approaching winter storm, line crews are staging equipment, reviewing response plans, and preparing to work around the clock to restore power safely and as quickly as possible. The co-op has secured additional crews from our sister cooperatives who will arrive on Saturday to assist in restoration efforts.
We are advising members to take the following steps now to prepare for possible outages:
- Sign up today for outage texting. Text CCEMC to 1.800.682.2217 to enroll.
- Bookmark CCEC’s outage map: http://outage.carteretcraven.coop.
- Charge your phones and keep flashlights nearby in case of a power outage.
- Stay away from any downed power lines and call us immediately to report them. Lines can still be energized.
- If you use a medical device that requires power, please have an alternate power source in the event of an outage.
- If you plan to use a generator, please do so safely. For generator safety tips and additional preparation information, visit https://ncstormcenter.coop/winter
Temperatures have been below average for the past several days, and that trend is expected to continue into next week. Now is the time for members to monitor their energy usage and take small steps that can have a big impact on their energy consumption and electric bill.
- Members are encouraged to monitor their energy usage through the PowerPay24 app or by visiting https://carteretcraven.coop.
- Keep your thermostat at 68° or as low as comfortably possible.
- Make sure your heat pump is set to HEAT, not EM. HEAT.
- Delay running major appliances like dishwashers and laundry machines
- Turn off lights and unplug devices not in use
Members are advised to check the co-op's website, and Facebook page for important updates throughout this winter storm.