Don’t get caught in the dark. An ounce of preparation can pay off huge in the event of a power outage. REC has a few tips you can use to make certain your family or business is ready for the next big storm.

Start here.

  • Flashlights and fresh batteries.
  • Battery-powered radio or TV and extra batteries.
  • Cell phone chargers (make sure your cell phone is fully charged).
  • Land-line phone with cord (cordless phones require electricity).
  • Battery-powered or windup alarm clock.
  • Supply of bottled water (one gallon per person per day).
  • Non-perishable foods that require no heating.
  • Blankets, bedding or sleeping bags.
  • First-aid kit and prescription medications.
  • Hand-operated can opener.
  • Special items for infants, the elderly or family members with special needs.
  • A variety of hand tools.
  • List of emergency and REC phone numbers.
  • Identification and copies of important family documents in a waterproof container.
  • Cash (ATMs may be unavailable).

Create a family emergency plan.

  • Discuss what to do in case of an emergency.
  • Bookmark REC's Outage Center on your smart device.
  • When there is impending dangerous weather, fill your bathtub with water if your supply depends on electricity.
  • Make sure your cell phones are charged.
  • Protect and unplug electronic equipment.
  • Ensure your contact information is up to date in MyREC SmartHub or call us at 800-552-3904.
  • If needed, register for REC's Serious Medical Condition Program (download the enrollment form and learn more).
  • If someone relies on life support equipment, identify an alternate location with power where they can go during an outage.
  • Fill up your vehicles with gas in the event that you need to evacuate or relocate to another area; and if you use a portable generator, fill up fuel cans.
  • Identify an evacuation route if needed.

REC STORIES

While representing REC at the 2024 Youth Tour, Jackson Hunley was selected as the Youth Leadership Council (YLC) representative for Virginia, a signif...
On Monday, June 17, four high school students set out for Washington, D.C., to represent REC on the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association Yo...
REC has awarded $20,000 in scholarships to 17 students to help them continue their education or work-force training.