Reliable service is important to FreeState. It makes our members happy, and it makes us happy. However, maintenance is often needed to make certain our system and infrastructure are prepared to provide you with the power you need. FreeState and power suppliers conduct work jobs throughout the year, which can result in planned outages. This allows us to work quicker and safer while ensuring your power will be more reliable for your future.
Here are a few planned outage tips to help you prepare if FreeState or the power supplier needs to cut power:
Have a back-up plan for life support equipment if you have it.
Adjust your refrigerator and freezer to the coldest temperature possible in advance so that things can get chilled more than normal. (Just remember to return them to the normal temperature after the outage is over.) Remember, food will stay colder longer if you keep the refrigerator closed during the outage.
Unplug sensitive electronics such as computers and televisions.
Charge your cell phone in advance so it has a full charge.
Keep a flashlight with extra batteries in a convenient place.
If you have a landline phone, make sure you have a hard-wired device. (Cordless phones don't work without electricity.)
Reset clocks, thermostats, and other programmed equipment after power is restored.
Inform FreeState if you have a generator and do not use it unless you're sure it was installed safely. An incorrectly installed generator can damage your property and endanger you and FreeState line workers who may be working on nearby powerlines.
FreeState is here to help. For assistance or questions, please contact our office at 1-800-794-1989 or email our member service representatives.
Why do we plan outages? Because sometimes we need to make safe maintenance adjustments.
