Living in the countryside has its positives and negatives. People in rural areas should be aware that they are likely to experience more power outages compared to those residing in urban or suburban areas. This is due to factors like abundant vegetation, a higher presence of wildlife, and other related considerations. Whenever you encounter an outage, whether it’s caused by a storm or scheduled maintenance, it’s important to be prepared for such situations.
Reminder: If you have a medical condition that requires electrical equipment, always have a backup plan in place.
Outage Checklist
- Keep a 3- to 5-day supply of drinking water in plastic bottles
- Plan on at least 1 gallon of water per person, per day
- Store a manual can opener with enough nonperishable foods for 3 to 5 days
- Canned meats, tuna fish and peanut butter are good foods to store – Don’t forget pet foods!
- Conserve water by using paper plates and plastic utensils
- Have a camp stove or grill for outdoor cooking
- Have a portable, battery-powered radio and alarm clock
- Have one non-portable phone that will work even if power is interrupted
- Plan where to meet and how to communicate with family members if separated
Keep essential family member contact information near your phone, in your wallet, and in your glove compartment
- Keep plenty of gas in your car
- Keep extra batteries, matches, propane, charcoal and firewood
- Coordinate with neighbors for care of the elderly and disabled living alone
- Maintain a supply of prescriptions, nonprescription drugs, vitamins and special dietary foods
- Playing cards, books, drawing and writing supplies, and board games help pass the time – If you have a video camera and tapes, your family can make a storm documentary
- Keep sanitary and personal hygiene supplies replenished – Pre-moistened cleansing towelettes are useful and help conserve water
- Use plastic trash bags and ties for garbage
- Put first-aid kits in your home and car
- Make sure you have cold weather clothing, foul weather gear, blankets and sleeping bags
- Consider purchasing alternative UL-approved heating devices – For example, a fireplace insert or woodstove will keep the heat in your home instead of up the chimney
- Use flashlights and other battery-operated lighting instead of candles
- Keep fire extinguishers fully charged
- Fill your bathtub with water for bathroom use before the storm (if you have a well)
- Visit www.sciremc.com and click "Report an Electric Outage."
- Download the "SCI Connect" app
- Use TextPower, www.sciremc.com/textpower or text “OUTAGE” to our NEW number: 765-505-7005
- Calling (800) 264-7362 or (765) 342-3344
Be Prepared for Severe Weather
Severe weather and heavy winds, means possible widespread power outages and tree damage. Make sure your home is prepared. Please use the following emergency links to assist you:
Prepare for Different Storms
Lightning Storms
Indiana storms can be unpredictable, especially when it comes to lightning. Be cautious of electrical appliances and other items, such as computers. Damage can occur from power surges caused by nearby lightning strikes. If you notice frayed wiring or sparks, or smell a burning odor, shut off the electrical system at the main circuit breaker immediately.
Winter Storms
Facing a power outage in winter can pose significant dangers. SCI REMC strongly recommends investing in a generator for such situations. Pay special attention to power lines, as snow and ice accumulation can add weight, potentially causing them to snap off the power poles or break the poles entirely.
Wind Storms
SCI REMC covers a distinctive territory, with over 70% of it covered by vegetation. Despite our efforts to maintain right-of-ways, we cannot fully control vegetation making contact with our poles outside of these designated areas. We strongly advise our members residing near vegetation to regularly trim or cut them to ensure they do not come into contact with power lines. This proactive measure enhances safety and helps prevent potential power disruptions.
If you have a medical condition that requires electrical equipment, always have a backup plan in place. This plan could include a portable generator, extra medical supplies or moving to an alternate location until power is restored. If you plan to use a generator for backup power, read all safety information and instructions before use.
Restoring Power
When the power goes out, how do SCI REMC crews know where to start working? How do you know if your outage has been reported? We’ve got answers to these questions and more, and it all starts with a safe, efficient plan for power restoration.
Learn More!
