SMECO continuously monitors weather forecasts in preparation for winter storms that may cause power outages. According to SMECO spokesperson Tom Dennison, “Snow, ice, and wind make a dangerous combination. When weather conditions threaten Southern Maryland, our crews are prepared to restore service if power outages occur.” As of Monday morning, January 3, SMECO’s line crews and Sumter and Penn Line contractor crews are working in the area. SMECO is expecting an additional 12 trucks with 30 line workers to arrive from AUI Power to assist with restoring electric service to areas affected by outages.
Dennison added, “Heavy wet snow is likely to cause outages, and even though nearly all of our members have smart meters, we ask that they report their outage if they lose power. Customers can call (877) 74-SMECO ((877) 747-6326). They can also go online to our website, or use SMECO’s text messaging service. We recently upgraded the SMECO 24/7 free mobile app with additional features, and we encourage customers to download the app or register for the texting service.” Customer-members can get more information about the app and text messaging service on SMECO’s website on our SMECO 24/7 page. And anyone can view the status of power outages, find helpful information, or report an outage on the co-op’s outage map on our Outages page.
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.