Hendricks Power was one of three Indiana electric cooperatives to send crews and equipment to assist with the power restoration effort in Kentucky after a winter storm moved through the state.
Twelve Hoosier lineworkers were dispatched to Licking Valley Rural Electric Cooperative in West Liberty, Kentucky, on February 16th to assist in the power recovery effort after more than half of the electric distribution cooperative’s consumers were left without electricity. In addition to Hendricks Power, crews from Marshall County REMC (Plymouth) and South Central Indiana REMC (Martinsville) assisted repair efforts for a week.
“While we take care of needs at home first, our crews are always eager to help others as well,” said Joe Parsons, Director of Operations, Hendricks Power. “We appreciate their dedication and time commitment, and support from their family members while they are away working endless hours. They represent us well by how professionally and safely they work.”
Crews noted the vast difference in terrain and often found themselves chipping away at rock to set new poles. One memorable location required crews to walk about a mile, without truck access and took them about four hours to dig a five-foot hole.
Regardless of the circumstance, it is important to remember safety around downed power lines. Always assume a downed power line is still energized. If you see a downed line, stay away and contact your electric utility. Additionally, stay away from limbs or trees in contact with downed lines because they can be conductors of electricity.
The Indiana electric cooperative mutual aid program provides cooperative assistance in service restoration from storms or other events that result in significant power outages.
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