As a winter storm approaches the Mid-Atlantic region, area residents are urged to prepare for the storm and the possibility of storm-related power outages. Southern Maryland Electric Cooperative (SMECO) is monitoring weather forecasts, and co-op crews are preparing to restore power when outages occur.

Although the severity of the storm is uncertain, it is currently expected to approach the area Tuesday night.  According to SMECO spokesperson Tom Dennison, “Our emergency response team held a planning meeting today.  Our SMECO personnel and contractor crews are ready, and our inventory is well-stocked.”

Customers can view a two-minute video, “Preparing for a Power Outage” to help them take steps to get ready before an outage occurs.  Customers can get more information or watch the video on the co-op’s website at www.smeco.coop.   

SMECO customers are encouraged to report power outages by calling the co-op’s automated system at 1-877-747-6326 (1-877-74-SMECO).  SMECO’s outage restoration policy is to make repairs that will restore service to the most people in the least amount of time. Transmission lines and substations are repaired first, followed by distribution lines that feed neighborhoods; tap lines and individual service lines are then repaired to restore power to customers who may still be without electricity.

The following is a list of steps customers can take to prepare for power interruptions:

  • If someone in your household depends on electricity to operate life support systems, make plans for alternate sources of power or alternate lodging. For shelter updates, call SMECO’s special needs information number: 1-866-524-9402. In addition, check with local fire department, which may offer temporary shelter.

  • Keep flashlights and fresh batteries on hand.

  • Stock nonperishable foods and keep a manual can opener handy. The ideal choices are foods that require no cooking, such as canned fruit, peanut butter, crackers, cereals, cereal bars, canned soup, tuna, and bread.

  • Do not stock the refrigerator or freezer with foods that may perish during a power outage.

  • If you plan to use a charcoal or gas grill for cooking, keep the grill outdoors.

  • If your water at home is supplied by a wel