Tennessee’s electric cooperatives prepare to assist states impacted by Hurricane Irma

[NASHVILLE] – Electric cooperatives across Tennessee today are monitoring the track of Hurricane Irma and preparing to assist in the recovery efforts if needed.

Electric cooperatives from 17 states, including co-ops in Tennessee, have spent the week developing a plan to assist in the recovery of areas impacted by the dangerous storm. “We work days ahead of events like this to organize resources, line up volunteers and make travel and lodging arrangements,” says Todd Blocker, vice president of member services for the Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association and coordinator of cooperative mutual aid for the state. “Louisiana, Alabama and Mississippi will provide assistance to Florida, and our crews will likely assist coastal Georgia and South Carolina. These plans may change as we get more information on the track of the storm and extent of the damage.”

The storm is expected to bring significant wind and rain to portions of Tennessee early next week, so volunteer crews will not be released until the remnants of the storm have passed. “Restoring service to our own members will be our priority,” adds Blocker.

“Tennessee lineworkers have provided assistance to several states in recent years,” says David Callis, executive vice president and general manager of the Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association. “Our crews have a reputation for responding quickly, working safely and showing compassion to those who have been impacted. We appreciate our employees’ desire to serve and wish them well in the days to come.”