Storm Season Doesn’t End in August — Be Ready!

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has forecasted an above normal Atlantic hurricane season this year, which means an increased chance of severe weather impacting DEC’s service territory. In the event that storms strike, the Co-op wants members to be prepared if faced with outages and longer restoration times. 

It is important to make sure that you and your family have an emergency plan in place, covering topics such as what to do if you are separated from your loved ones, where you will meet if you get separated and how you plan to contact each other once it is safe to do so. You should also purchase or make your own emergency preparedness kit, containing supplies you may need to wait out the storm. 

When putting together your emergency preparedness kit, make sure to include non-perishable food items, a supply of water large enough to last each family member for several days, a flashlight, first aid items, extra clothes, medications and copies of important documents. Don’t forget your four-legged friends, too — if you have pets, make sure to have supplies to cater to their needs during the worst of the storm as well. This year, DEC encourages members to take a proactive approach to storm preparedness.