Winter Storms: Prepare for Outages
OUTAGE CENTER
REPORT AN OUTAGE
By Phone
When you report the outage from the phone number that is listed on your account, the Outage Management System will confirm your number to verify the outage location. If you are calling from a different number, the system will ask you to enter your account's phone number or account number. Your account number can be found on your bill. Orange County REMC's Outage Management System will receive your call. The Outage Management System immediately updates our outage recording system and allows for fewer busy signals and less wait time for member.
Online via SmartHub
Report your outage via SmartHub on your mobile device or desktop.
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SmartHub is a mobile and web application that allows you to:
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View and change account information
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Monitor and analyze your electric usage
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Make payments all from your mobile device or computer
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Set-up recurring credit card payments and sign up for bank draft
OUTAGE RESOURCES
Outage Tips
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Check your breakers and fuses to ensure the problem is not within your system.
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Call Orange County REMC as soon as your power goes out. Do not rely on neighbors to call.
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Have an emergency kit ready. This kit should include items to get you by for a couple days should an emergency strike. See here for a list of items to keep in your kits.
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Never go near downed power lines! The lines may still be energized and are very dangerous.
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Limit the times you open the refrigerator or freezer. Food will remain frozen for up to 48 hours if the doors remain closed and the unit is in good working condition.
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Appliances and electronics are extremely sensitive to electrical spikes from lightning or other faults. If able disconnect from the electrical source.
Common Outage Causes
Weather
Weather is probably the most well-known reason for power outages. It’s also the most common. Storms can knock down trees and tear down power lines and strong winds or flooding can damage co-op equipment. Wind and thunderstorms can be a cause for concern as well as a winter ice storm.
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Animals
Small animals also cause power outages. Squirrels, in particular, are notorious for climbing on electrical equipment and causing outages. Raccoons, foxes, possums, snakes and birds can also trigger disruptions. Even larger animals, such as bobcats, have been known to cause problems on electric poles.
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Planned Outages
Orange County REMC must make upgrades or provide routine maintenance to the electricity infrastructure. We will call those affected with the time they will be without power. It is important to keep all numbers updated. With planned outages you get the benefit of knowing the power will be out in advance, as well as an estimate for how long.
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