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If you rely on an oxygen machine, sleep with a CPAP or have other medically essential equipment in your home that depends on electricity to operate, we realize how important reliable electric service is to you. With the rise in use of in-home medical equipment, we receive many calls, comments, and yes, sometimes complaints, regarding the urgency of power restoration to members with specific health needs. This is not something we take lightly.

We do all we can on our side of the lines to restore power as quickly and safely as possible. But what can our members do? A backup power generator is the best all-around solution, but in some cases, automatic units are not affordable and portable units are not feasible.

Something else our members who rely on oxygen machines can do is to contact their medical supply company and arrange to have a supply of oxygen on hand for extended power outage situations. It is also a good idea to have extra batteries and other necessary medical supplies stored and ready to use in the event of extended outages caused by thunderstorms or hurricanes. In most cases, medical supply companies will work with their customers to deliver these supplies ahead of a hurricane.

It is also important for members who rely on medical equipment to call the co-op as soon as possible to report outages. Our employees promise to do everything in our power to get your power restored as safely and as quickly as possible. Remember, if you’re on oxygen, make sure you have the contact info for your medical supply company nearby to notify them about extended outage situations.

It is also very important to have the ability to go to an alternate location with power – whether that be a family member’s home, a hotel or nearby shelter that can address health needs. To identify where closest health shelter is located, contact your local emergency management office.