From the President and CEO's Desk: By Doug Tracy

Missouri weather, especially in summer, can bring powerful and unpredictable storms. As we’ve experienced in years past, and even as recently as this spring, severe weather has left many of our members facing power outages and property damage. We understand the frustration and hardship such storms cause, and your safety remains our top priority.

These storms serve as a stark reminder of the importance of preparedness. Downed power lines, lightning strikes, and flash flooding are real dangers. Please remember to treat all downed lines as live and stay far away. Never attempt to remove debris from lines or enter flooded areas where electrical hazards may exist. If you see a downed line, report it immediately to our 24/7 outage line.

Preparation is key. Ensure you have an emergency kit with flashlights, batteries, non-perishable food, and water. Charge your devices and have a battery-powered radio for updates. Sign up for our outage alerts and follow our social media channels for real-time information. Consider investing in surge protectors to safeguard your valuable electronics.
One of the unique strengths of electric cooperatives is our commitment to mutual aid. When severe storms strike, cooperatives across the state and even from neighboring states rally to support each other. Often line crews and support staff from cooperatives, including CREC, travel to affected areas, working tirelessly to restore power as quickly and safely as possible. This spirit of cooperation is a testament to the cooperative principles that guide us. We are not just a utility; we are a community, and we’re here for each other.

Our crews are trained to handle these situations. They work long hours in challenging conditions to get your lights back on. We prioritize safety and efficiency in our restoration efforts, starting with critical infrastructure and then moving to the most widespread outages. While every outage is important, we appreciate your patience as we work to restore power.
We also want to remind everyone about generator safety. If you use a generator, ensure it is properly grounded and placed in a well-ventilated area to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Never connect a generator directly to your home’s wiring without a transfer switch installed by a qualified electrician.

 As we move further into the summer months, please stay informed and prepared. We are committed to providing you with reliable and safe electricity, even in the face of severe weather. Your safety is our priority, and we are here to support you through every storm.