FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                               

February 12, 2010

PowerSouth keeping a watchful eye on winter weather conditions

ANDALUSIA , ALA. – As a rare snowfall blankets Alabama and northwest Florida, PowerSouth’s crews are on standby to repair possible transmission system damage, should it occur.

Winter storms can be some of the most troubling weather conditions for utilities. As freezing temperatures convert rain into ice and snow, the additional weight often causes tree limbs to break from the additional weight, falling on power lines and causing power outages.

“Wet, heavy snow can be one of the most damaging weather events for an electric system,” says Terry Wilson, PowerSouth Transmission & Distribution Operations and Maintenance Manager. “Its added weight brings down trees and power lines, and ice-covered roads can slow workers’ ability to safely inspect the transmission system and repair any damaged poles, transformers and wires.”

Steep terrain and saturated soil also increase the chances of fallen trees that could cause power outages, and winds can compound potential damage.

Snow accumulation can also impede on- and off-road travel for repair crews and delay response time and restoration efforts.

"Safety of PowerSouth employees and the public remains in the forefront as crews monitor the storm and make any necessary repairs," says Mark Ingram, PowerSouth Communication Manager.

So as you enjoy the winter wonderland, keep these safety measures in mind:

• Always assume fallen power lines are energized. Stay at least 10 feet away from a downed power line and any nearby objects it may be touching, such as a fence or tree limb.
• Assume all wires on the ground are electrically charged – including cable TV feeds.
• Contact your utility company immediately to report downed power lines outside your home.
• Never touch a person who is in contact with a downed power line. Call 911 immediately.
• Never attempt to move a downed power line with another object. Even non-conductive materials like wood or cloth that are slightly wet can conduct electricity.
• Portable generators can be used as a source of power if electricity is lost during a storm – however, do not operate a portable generator in your home, basement or garage. They can very quickly produce high levels or carbon monoxide, which can be deadly. Refer to the instruction manual for safe operation. Make sure there is at least one working carbon monoxide detector in your home. Test the batteries at least twice a year, at the same time smoke detector batteries are tested.
• Never connect a portable generator directly to your home’s wiring or into a regular household outlet. Power from generators can backfeed along power lines and electrocute anyone coming in contact with them, including utility workers making repairs.
• You are encouraged to unplug or turn off all electrical appliances — from televisions and computers to electric ranges — in the event of a power outage, in order to avoid a circuit overload when the power is restored. Leave a single lamp turned on so you will know when your power is restored.
• Disconnect (trip the breaker in your electrical panel) major heating and cooling equipment circuits.
• When power is restored, turn on appliances and other electric devices one at a time in order to avoid a surge that could potentially start a fire.
• When re-entering your home after a storm, do so during daylight hours, when it is easier to avoid hazards, particularly if the electricity is off and you have no lights.
• If you smell gas, notify emergency authorities and do not turn on the lights, light matches, smoke or do anything that could cause a spark.

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  About PowerSouth:

PowerSouth serves the wholesale energy needs of 16 electric cooperatives and four municipal electric systems in Alabama and northwest Florida, with more than a million consumers in 39 Alabama and 10 Florida counties. PowerSouth is dedicated to providing reliable energy at the lowest possible cost to its members.

  For more information:

Mark Ingram, Corporate Communication Manager

334.427.3330

mark.ingram@powersouth.com

www.powersouth.com

PowerSouth is an EEO and AAP employer