Generator Power Safety and Medical Devices

October 05, 2016
Category: Press Releases, Safety

As a not-for-profit electric cooperative, SECO Energy is dedicated to being its members’ first source for electric safety communication and resources during major weather events such as Hurricane Matthew.

Members who use generators during service interruptions should only use with safety in mind. Generators should never be used in an enclosed space – generator engines emit carbon monoxide (CO). If CO is inhaled, it can be fatal to humans and pets, as it is a colorless, odorless, invisible killer. Do not attempt to use a generator when it is wet, as this poses a risk for electrocution and death. Always read and follow the manufacturer’s safety instructions contained in the generator operations manual.

For members who may need continuous power to run life-saving machines, please be aware that Hurricane Matthew may be the cause of prolonged outages during and after the storm hits. If you are a SECO member who requires uninterrupted service and you do not have a back-up source of power to operate a medically necessary device, now is the time to act as SECO cannot guarantee continuous service during a severe storm event. Contact the emergency operations center (EOC) in the county where you live and inquire about available shelters in your area. Below is the contact information for the EOCs by county:

Sumter County 352-689-4400 or visit their website for more information.
Lake County 352-343-9420 or visit their website for more information.
Marion County Citizen’s Info line is open 352-369-7500 or visit their website for more information.
Citrus County 352-527-2106 or 352-746-5470 or visit their website or more information.
Levy County 352-486-5213 or visit their website for more information.
Hernando County 352-754-4083 or 352-754-4111 or visit their website for more information.
Pasco County 727-847-8137 or visit their website for more information.

SECO reminds members to never touch downed power lines. Even if a line is down, it could still be live and lead to electrocution and death. Do not allow children to play near downed lines or trees downed during storms. Please report any service interruptions or downed power lines through SECO’s Storm Center or call 800-732-6141.