North Fort Myers, FL, June 4, 2024 – Long before storm season, utilities develop response plans and options to mitigate damage and recover from destruction as quickly as possible. Experience from past storms helps LCEC in the planning process. Incorporating lessons learned ensures rapid recovery after future storms. Southwest Florida has had their fair share of storms and LCEC restoration plans have been refined over the years.
How does LCEC prepare for storm season?
Investment in systems and programs yearlong is aimed at reducing vulnerabilities and building a resilient electric system. LCEC continually hardens the electric system by proactively inspecting, identifying potential problem areas and aging infrastructure, and repairing or replacing before the storm rolls in. Routine vegetation management helps to keep lines clear of trees and brush that could cause power outages.
No crisis can be managed without skill, knowledge, resources, and patience. Every employee, LCEC vendor, and supplier are on deck when the threat of a storm rears its ugly head. The restoration plan is practiced long before the first tracking model is published and many potential scenarios are considered. No storm is the same and there is no way to know what each situation will bring. However, a plan for additional resources, extra fuel, inventory and equipment, communications, fleet maintenance, and many other details are all proactively considered so that boots can be on the ground as quick as possible to restore critical infrastructure and help the community get back to normal.
How can residents and business owners help in the restoration process?
Developing a family or business plan is critical. Remaining safe and comfortable without power is not a thrill but it is possible. Practice the plan and implement it when needed. Be patient and trust that utilities and their people are working as hard as possible to restore service quickly. Use the information in the LCEC Hurricane Guide to make life easier while the restoration team works.
Immediately after a major storm, there is no need to report an outage. LCEC will assess the damage and know where repairs are needed. After a few days, if you are the only one in your location without service, that is the time to contact your provider.
Work together as a community while LCEC focuses on restoration. If you have power, offer assistance to others without. Offer encouragement and support to all emergency responders. As frustrated as those without power may be, remember they are away from their families and working under challenging conditions to help everyone get on with their lives.