A storm is on its way, and may wreak havoc on electric generation, transmission, and distribution systems across the United States, including La Plata Electric Association, Inc. (LPEA) in Southwest Colorado. High winds, severe thunderstorms, deep snow and ice may be in our local forecast soon. Each type of severe weather can be destructive. Very destructive!

 

The weight of ice on trees and powerlines can topple branches and trunks, wires and poles. The damage can take days or weeks to repair and rebuild.

 

LPEA’s main objective following any storm is to restore power to critical facilities and help as many people as possible. When damage is severe and widespread, the cooperative’s mutual assistance network is activated and cooperatives from neighboring regions are called to assist. La Plata Electric Association, Inc. employees, suppliers and partners will work around the clock until service is restored.

 

To report a power outage call: (970) 247-5786, Option 5.

 

LPEA member-owners are advised to build and store a disaster supplies kit in their home, and/or vehicle if possible. You never know when you may need this kit in case of an emergency or extended power outage. To assemble a disaster supplies kit, consider the recommendations of the American Red Cross.

 

Here are some suggested disaster supplies kit items:

 

  • LPEA telephone number (970) 247-5786, Option 5
  • Emergency contact numbers
  • Battery-powered radio & extra batteries
  • Candles & matches
  • Flashlights & extra batteries
  • First-aid kit & medications
  • Nonperishable food, MREs
  • Hand-operated can opener
  • Water

 

If Your LPEA Power Is Off

Check your home's breaker panel (and any outdoor disconnects) to make sure the outage is not due to a tripped breaker. Call your neighbors to see if their power is off. This will help you determine if the problem exists within your home, or on our power lines.

 

If you determine the problem is outside your home, call LPEA, (970) 247-5786, Option 5. Call any time your power is out. Do not assume that others have reported the outage.

 

Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed. Food should keep for up to 48 hours in a freezer, if the door remains closed. If the outage persists, cover your refrigerator or freezer with a blanket, make arrangements to store food at another location, or purchase dry ice.

 

Turn off all electrical appliances that were on when the power went off, especially heat pumps, air conditioners, or electric heat. But leave a light on so you will know when power is restored.

 

Extended Outages

During a prolonged outage, consider using an emergency shelter and find other accommodations for children, elderly relatives, and anyone who is ill.

 

Don't cook inside with charcoal. Be extra careful with candles, kerosene lamps, heaters, and fireplaces.

 

Have a supply of water on hand.

 

Restoring Power After a Storm

 

In the aftermath of a major storm La Plata Electric Association, Inc.:

 

Assigns our repair resources to the most critical areas to make them safe for the public and for our employees to continue working

Conducts a thorough damage assessment

Restores electrical service to the customers who provide health, safety and other essential services to your community.

 

These customer groups include:

 

  • Public services such as Red Cross facilities
  • Communications such as emergency radio systems, telephones and televisions
  • Designated sewage pump and disposal plants and water supply utilities
  • Restores power lines that deliver power in the shortest period of time to the largest number of members possible
  • Then, LPEA restores service to individual homes and businesses.

 

Help Us Restore Power Safely

Please be aware of our service vehicles parked along roadways. Call LPEA at (970) 247-5786, Option 5 to report outages and any unsafe conditions - sparking power lines. Stay away from these lines, as well as all downed power lines. You should always act as if a downed line is energized.