Your call comes in on the Automated Outage Reporting System to our high tech Dispatch Center for monitoring and resolution.

Link to your local TV weather stations and get the latest on our forecast: WECT Channel 6 WWAY Channel 3 Or other weather sites: The National Weather Service The Weather Channel Intellicast

If you experience a power outage, you are asked to call 1-800-682-5309. You will speak to an automated attendant who immediately enters your outage into the computer. We realize that more people prefer to speak to a friendly human being, especially in the time of a crisis. But our automated attendants help us get your power turned on faster with fewer errors systemwide.

Here's how it works:

1. You call 1-800-682-5309

2. The location of your call is identified and recorded by computer.

3. The moment you hang up, the location is forwarded to our emergency dispatch unit. You need only call once. We will begin restoring power immediately starting with sub-stations and transmission lines and then specific areas as soon as possible.

Note: You must call from the location where the outage has taken place. And remember please, to be sure that BEMC has your current phone number on file.

For more information, see weather service links at top of page.
For a complete Hurricane Survival Guide in PDF file format, click here:

Click Here for a BEMC Hurricane Tracking Map

PDF files require Adobe(R) Acrobat(R) Reader 3.0 or higher. Acrobat Reader, free from Adobe Systems, Inc., allows you to view, navigate, and print PDF files across all major computing platforms.

Hurricane season runs from June 1 through November 30 each year.

To report a power outage, call: 800-682-5309 and follow the steps given to you by the automated attendant.

Hurricane Preparedness

Prior to the storm season:
- Keep gutters and storm drains clear
- Trim large, diseased or dead branches away from house
- Have a plan for your family's evacuation
- Have a plan for any pets
- Write and file directions for turning off water, gas and electricity at main source
- If beach resident, pick up sticker to assure access during evacuation

Shopping List: - Plywood or storm shutters - Generator - Click here for information on using a generator safely - Chain saw - Transistor radio - Battery television - Gas grill - Coolers

Preparing for an imminent hurricane:
- Put up shutters or plywood
- Tie down or move outdoor furniture, grills, potted plants, etc.
- Tape large glass windows or doors
- Fill up your car's gas tank
- On first level of house, create a "camp" away from windows and exterior doors
- Fill containers and bathtubs with water
- Collect all important papers and insurance to assure accessibility if needed
- Gather flashlights, candles, batteries and a transistor radio
- Gather activities such as board and card games, crayons and other materials for children

Shopping List:
- Gas for generator
- Propane for grill
- Candles
- Matches, lighters
- Batteries
- Ice
- Canned food
- Water
- Food easily grilled

As a special precaution, BEMC advises anyone requiring life-sustaining equipment or suffering from extreme medical situations requiring electricity to make alternative arrangements. We recommend relocation to another site with electricity, (neighbor, relative, hospital, shelter, etc.) If necessary, contact emergency services (911) or perhaps your church for assistance.

Leaving your home for a shelter:
- If officials instruct you to evacuate, please heed their warnings.

If you must go to a shelter, here are some helpful hints:
- Turn off electricity at main breaker
- Turn off water (if emergency management requires)
- Deliver pets to previously arranged accommodations
- Inform family of plans/destination
- Take all required medications

After the Storm:
- Only return home after authorities advise that it is safe
- Beware of loose or downed power lines
- Check your home for any damage
- Use flashlight until you're sure there are no gas leaks, etc.
- Check for sewage or water damage
- Wear protective clothing and sturdy shoes
- Check for fires or fire hazards
- Check on neighbors, especially elderly or disabled persons
- Make temporary repairs to protect from any further damage
- Beware of unscrupulous workmen

Steps to restoring power