CEO Letter

ceo (2) — **A. Berl Davis, Jr., President & CEO**

Staying connected
After hurricanes, we focus on power lines AND lines of communication

Posted August 2018

HERE WE GO, FOLKS—another hurricane season! Let’s hope it’s a quiet one, but let’s also be prepared for better or worse. As always, your co-op is ready. We work hard every day to make sure our distribution system is resilient.

We also strive to keep all lines of communication open. So, if a storm strikes, we provide updates on restoration work on local radio or TV stations, including the official emergency radio stations listed below. We’re big on social media, too, so like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter and Instagram. If you are evacuated, only return home when local officials say it is safe.

Some of you may have seen a bill insert, Eye of the Storm, from us. It contains lots of handy information so please check that out. Here are some of its most essential tips to ensure that you and your family stay as safe as possible, whether you remain here or need to evacuate:

Have an emergency plan in place: In case of evacuation, fill your gas tank and withdraw cash from automatic teller machines. Make arrangements for your pets and be sure your entire family is aware of the evacuation plan.
Prepare your home: Disconnect electronic equipment such as TVs and computers to avoid voltage sags/surges, trim any weak limbs or shrubs that may cause damage to your home, and board windows if necessary.
Have an emergency supply kit ready: Bottled water, non-perishable food items and flashlights with extra batteries are just a few things you’ll need. Check the American Red Cross website, redcross.org, for more tips on what to include in your kit.
Charge your phone: We’re all so dependent on smartphones these days, but, of course, they don’t work without good old electricity. So keep them charged, especially if you hear that a big storm’s brewing. And don’t forget to pack backup chargers and connectors.
Keep a list of contact information: Emergency management services, county law enforcement, local fire/rescue and utility providers (such as Palmetto Electric) are good to have on hand. To report power outages, call PowerTouch at 1-866-445-5551 or log on to My Energy Online, either at palmetto.coop or with the My Energy Online app.
Do not return home until the area is declared safe: Stay clear of fallen utility lines. Avoid tree limbs and debris that could hide fallen lines. If you see a line down, call 1-800-922-5551 or 911 immediately

We appreciate your patience during service interruptions. Rest assured, Palmetto employees will do whatever it takes to get your lights back on as quickly as possible.

Palmetto Electric’s Official Emergency Information Stations: