OMU News

One year ago this month, our region was covered in ice. Streets were impassable and most of our community was without power.

Thanks to the dedication of our employees, the support of our community the assistance from a number of utilities across our part of the nation, we were able to restore power to our customers as efficiently and safely as possible.

As we brace for the winter upon us, there are a few things we can do to prepare should there be another such event:

-Have an emergency response plan. Make arrangements to have a place to stay. Be ready to pack medications and other necessities should you need to leave your home. Develop a plan for your pets and animals should you need to be away from your home.

-Have battery operated lanterns easily accessible. Propane and kerosene lanterns can be used for short periods of time, but can produce dangerous gasses when used in an enclosed area.

-Have coolers accessible should you need to empty and transport food from freezers and refrigerators.

-If you have a generator, please make sure it is installed according to electrical code and inspected to assure it is safe for both your home and OMU’s electrical system.

-Have a radio and extra batteries nearby to stay up-to-date with weather advisories and restoration information.

-Know how to operate your electric garage door should power not be available.

-Keep a windup clock available.
Remember: if there are downed lines and poles, please do not approach or attempt to remove the lines or limbs, call OMU immediately.

If you have additional questions, please visit our website at www.omu.org or call 926-3200.

With temperatures dipping and staying well below freezing, it is important to protect your water lines.


A few precautions can save you from not only the mess of a frozen pipe, but also the expense of repairs:

1. If you have a history of freezing pipes or if your pipes run along or in outside walls, allow water to run in a small steady stream from both the hot and cold faucets.

2. Disconnect outdoor garden hoses and drain outdoor faucets.

3. Locate your main shut-off valve inside your house and label it.

4. Wrap exposed pipes typically found under sinks, especially if pipes are located on outside walls.

5. If your house has a crawl space, close all vents and access doors.

6. Open cupboard or cabinet doors to allow indoor heat to warm pipes.

7. If you are going to be gone for an extended period of time during cold spells, shut off your water service and open faucets to drain pipes.

8. If you have an irrigation system, assure it has been properly winterized.

If you have additional questions, please contact our Customer Service Staff at (270) 926-3200.