Southern Maryland residents are bracing for a major winter storm this weekend that could deliver heavy snow, high winds, and ice accumulation, raising the risk of widespread power outages across the region served by Southern Maryland Electric Cooperative (SMECO).
SMECO crews are on standby and actively monitoring forecasts to respond swiftly and safely to any disruptions, prioritizing public and worker safety amid hazardous conditions. The cooperative emphasized that even modest ice buildup can topple trees and power lines, a common trigger for winter outages.
“Like most of our customers, we are monitoring the weather forecasts and preparing to respond to outages that may result from heavy snow, wind, and ice. Ice is a major factor when it comes to winter storm outages, as even small amounts can bring down lines and trees. Our staff is ready, with crews and resources on standby to respond as quickly and safely as conditions allow,” said SMECO spokesperson Tom Dennison.
Dennison added that restoration efforts follow a structured policy: Transmission lines and substations receive first attention, followed by main distribution lines serving neighborhoods, and finally individual service lines. Bucket truck operations depend on road conditions, wind speeds, and overall weather severity, with safety remaining the top priority.
Customers have multiple straightforward options to report outages during the storm. They can call the 24/7 Outage Hotline at 1-877-74-SMECO (1-877-747-6326), submit reports via the cooperative’s website at smeco.coop, use the free SMECO 24/7 mobile app, or enroll in the texting service. The app also provides access to an interactive outage map, payment options, and more details at smeco.coop/SMECO247. Text alert registration is available at smeco.coop/smeco-text-alerts.
For downed power lines, which pose immediate life-threatening risks, residents should never approach or attempt to clear them. Report them immediately to SMECO at 1-888-440-3311 and allow trained crews to handle removal and repairs.
SMECO urged proactive preparation to minimize risks and maintain safety during potential extended outages. Key recommendations include:
- For households relying on electric-powered life support equipment, arrange backup power sources or alternative lodging in advance.
- If using a portable generator, operate it exclusively outdoors—never in enclosed spaces like homes, garages, attics, or basements—to prevent deadly carbon monoxide buildup. Connect appliances directly via extension cords, ensure proper grounding, and shut off/disconnect the unit immediately when utility power returns.
- Assemble flashlights with fresh batteries; avoid candles or lanterns due to fire hazards.
- Stock nonperishable, no-cook foods such as canned goods, peanut butter, crackers, cereal bars, and fruit, along with a manual can opener.
- Avoid overloading refrigerators or freezers with perishables that could spoil during outages.
- Use charcoal or gas grills only outdoors for cooking.
- If on a well system, store extra water in clean containers like jugs or tubs.
- Keep a battery-powered radio tuned to local news and weather updates.
- Have a corded phone available, as cordless models fail without power; consider car chargers for cell phones.
- Maintain vehicle fuel above half a tank and fresh batteries in smoke detectors.
- Keep cash on hand, since ATMs and card systems may fail.
During an outage:
- Limit opening refrigerators and freezers to preserve cold temperatures longer.
- Ensure ovens and stoves are off to avoid fire risks upon restoration.
- Switch off major appliances, particularly heat pumps, before power returns, then restart them gradually to avoid electrical surges.
A two-minute instructional video, “Preparing for a Power Outage,” offers additional guidance and is accessible at smeco.coop/safety/outages/hurricane-readiness, with winter-specific tips applicable.
Winter conditions demand extra vigilance, as driving becomes treacherous and staying warm turns critical. SMECO stressed that while crews work diligently to restore service to the greatest number of customers in the shortest time, unpredictable weather can extend response periods.