Berkeley Electric Cooperative Makes Final Preparations for Dorian

BERKELEY COUNTY, S.C. – Berkeley Electric Cooperative is prepared to go into storm mode with the arrival of Hurricane Dorian this afternoon, according to BEC spokesperson Micah Ponce.

The Cooperative has enacted its mutual aid agreements with in-state cooperatives that won’t be affected by the storm. It also has an additional complement of 90 outside crew members on standby – including crews from sister cooperatives in Arkansas.

Due to safety concerns, crews will not work in the field if sustained winds reach 35 mph or higher. Once it is safe to do so, crews will begin restoration efforts by working in shifts around the clock.

In the event of coastal flooding due to storm surge, crews will be unable to begin outage restoration until floodwaters recede and work conditions are deemed safe.

Berkeley Electric Cooperative will closely monitor coastal flood levels. If it is determined that floodwaters pose a risk to the underground electrical system, the Cooperative may pre-emptively de-energize parts of the system in order to avoid catastrophic damage and to speed restoration times.

Berkeley Electric will be in constant contact with area officials regarding any possibility of de-energizing the system.

Beginning Thursday morning, all Berkeley Electric Cooperative offices will be closed for the duration of the storm. Additionally, no members will be disconnected for non-payment until further notice nor will the Cooperative set any new meters.

“Our members’ safety is our primary concern. In the event of storm damage, we urge members avoid downed power lines and to report them to 911 and the cooperative. Always assume the line is live and never try to move or drive over it,” stated Ponce.

Ponce added that portable generators should only be used to power individual appliances and should always be operated outside in a well-ventilated area away from doors and windows.

He also warned residents to never try to power their home with a portable generator because it could re-energize the electrical system causing serious injury to lineworkers; and, standby whole house generators must use a double-throw switch to isolate them from the electrical system.