I recall one stormy summer when a string of thunderstorms swept through our area for four consecutive days. On one of those nights, the power at our house went out. The first thing my 9-year-old daughter asked was, “How long will it be off?” Trying to manage expectations, I told her it could be anywhere from 20 minutes to several hours — a response that didn’t sit well with a child looking forward to her bedtime entertainment.

Behind every power outage is a team of dedicated linemen ready to brave the elements and work tirelessly to restore electricity. Whether it’s the middle of the night or during a holiday weekend, they respond promptly, often sacrificing personal plans and family time to ensure our homes regain power as quickly as possible.

The journey begins with a dispatch call from the control center. Linemen scramble to gather their gear, coordinate with fellow crew members, and prepare for what lies ahead. Despite living close to the REMC building, reaching the outage site isn’t always straightforward. They navigate through rain-soaked roads, fallen debris, and sometimes treacherous conditions — all while prioritizing safety above all.

Upon arrival, their first task is to assess the situation. This initial step is crucial as they diagnose the cause of the outage, which could range from fallen trees entangled in power lines to damaged utility poles from car accidents. Each scenario demands unique skills and tools, requiring precision and expertise honed through years of training and experience.

For more complex outages, linemen may need to call in additional support or specialized equipment. This coordination ensures that repairs proceed smoothly and safely. Throughout the process, constant communication with the control center provides updates and adjusts strategies as needed, ensuring efficiency and minimizing downtime for affected members.

The actual repair work varies widely. It might involve clearing debris, replacing damaged equipment, or restringing power lines — all tasks performed diligently in all weather conditions. Linemen work through rain, wind, and even extreme heat or cold, driven by a shared commitment to restoring normalcy for the membership.

As consumers, our role during an outage extends beyond waiting for the lights to come back on. Reporting outages promptly helps prioritize response efforts. Stay informed through official channels like social media, or the outage center at fcremc.coop. Patience during these moments is crucial. Safety will take precedence over speed.

Above all, showing appreciation for our linemen goes a long way. A simple thank you, or a thoughtful gesture acknowledges their hard work and sacrifices. These professionals do more than just restore power — they ensure our homes stay connected and our lives run smoothly. They are the ones who work tirelessly to keep our members’ homes powered, especially during challenging times. The next time the lights flicker and go out, I’ll be grateful for the linemen who brave tough conditions to restore power to our members.