Storm Preparation:

TREE TRIMMING:
Easement Area Ensuring that our member-owners have reliable and efficient electric service is a driving force at Aiken Electric Cooperative. One way we do this is by maintaining a clear path, or right-of-way easement, around power lines.

MEMBERS:
Store our “Lights On” number 1-877-264-5368 in your phone or at an easily accessible location.
Turn the refrigerator and freezer to the coldest setting and keep them closed as much as possible so that food will last longer if the power goes out.

If you or a family member requires life support equipment such as a respirator, make sure AEC knows about these needs and have a backup source of power ready if the primary source of power does go out. Keep your backup generator in good condition and test it periodically.
Have a battery-powered radio on hand with extra batteries. Storm Safety before, during, and after preparation tips

POWER RESTORATION:
When the power goes out most of us expect it to come back on within a few hours but sometimes major storms cause wide spread damages and outages can last longer than expected. Crews work as quickly and safely as possible even in unfavorable conditions to restore power.
Four Steps to restoring power:

Step 1: Repair high-voltage transmission lines
Step 2: Inspect distribution substation
Step 3: Check main distribution lines
Step 4: Examine tap lines

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
When should I call AEC to report an outage?
As soon as you discover you are without power, alert our 24/7 dispatch center about your outage by calling our “Lights On” number at 1-877-264-5368. For more information, visit our Live Outage Map at www.aikenco-op.org.

Why should I call the “Lights On” number instead of talking to a live person?
Our automated reporting system is directly aligned with our state-of-the-art 24/7 dispatch center, so registering your outage through our “Lights On” number is the quickest way to get your request to crews out in the field.

Where can I get update on my outage?
Aiken Electric will provide information about widespread outages on their Facebook page. For the most up to date outage information, visit our Live Outage Map at www.aikenco-op.org.

Do I need to call more than once to report my outage?
Once you call our “Lights On” number, 1-877-264-5368, your outage is recorded. There is no need to call more than once.

Why did an AEC crew leave my neighborhood even though I do not have power?
The main goal is to safely restore power to the greatest number of customers in the shortest time possible. Keep in mind that if there is damage to power plants, switchyards or transmission lines, those facilities must be repaired by our power supplier before we can restore your service. During a storm, damage is ongoing. Crews often must immediately go to the source of the outage before they can restore power to individual homes.

Why do I have power and my neighbors don’t?
Even though homes are located in the same neighborhood or street, they may be serviced by two separate substations.

What should I do if a line is on the ground?
Stay clear and assume all downed power lines are ENERGIZED and DANGEROUS. It could cause serious injury or death. Consider the circumstances and determine whether an emergency call to 911 is warranted, but always call Aiken Electric Cooperative.

For more information, visit The Electric Cooperatives of South Carolina’s Storm Center at http://www.ecsc.org/storm-center