Commonly asked questions about electrical outages and how to navigate through them.
Whether you’re wondering about the causes of outages, how to report them, or what safety precautions to take, we’ve got you covered. Our comprehensive FAQ section provides valuable information and practical tips to help you stay informed, prepared, and safe during power disruptions. Explore our frequently asked questions to gain a better understanding of electrical outages and find solutions to common concerns.
How do I report an outage?
Report an electric outage 24/7 via the SmartHub app, on our website or by phone at (833) CORE-FIX (267-3349). To report an outage via text message, text #OUTAGE to 85700. Please note: You must already be registered with our system to report and receive outage alerts. If you are not already registered, do so here.
How does CORE restore power in an outage?
The outage restoration process begins at the point where electricity feeds into our system. This could be at a substation, transmission line or main distribution line. After these repairs have been made, crews work on remaining outages, beginning with areas serving the greatest number of members and continuing until service is restored to all members.
How do you decide whose power to restore first?
After initial repairs are made, our crews work on remaining outages and correct the issues, beginning with areas serving the greatest number of members and continuing until electricity is restored to all affected members’ homes.
How long will it take for my power to be restored?
Each outage is a result of different circumstances, and some take longer to identify and restore than others. Oftentimes, our line workers are working in severe weather and at night, or in a rural area where communication is spotty and they are unable to report back to the office. As a result, outage information may not be immediately available.
In some parts of our service area, line workers must traverse remote mountain territory to reach and investigate the cause of an outage, which can be time-consuming. In other instances, system operators can quickly reroute power without dispatching crews to the field, which significantly shortens the outage duration.
We provide updates as best we can through our automated phone, text and email alert systems as new information becomes available. In large outage situations, we post information on our social media accounts and this website. We will notify members by email when outages are planned. Be sure to sign up for text message notifications and SmartHub or check our outage map for the most up-to-date information.
When there is an outage, at what point do you call in more non-CORE contracted crews?
CORE is seldom in a scenario where extra non-CORE teams are required. In the event of a potential large-scale situation, CORE will ensure that additional contractor crews are prepared and available to provide assistance.
Why do my neighbors have electricity, but I don’t?
CORE’s main lines consist of three “phase” wires. It is possible for one of these phases to be without power while the other two phases continue to provide electricity flow. It is also possible you are served by a tap line near the main line. In these cases, power can be interrupted to the tap line while the main line stays on. It is also possible your transformer has failed. If the tap is on and the transformer is not working, your power will be out while many or all your neighbors’ power remains on.
What should I do if someone in my home depends on electricity to power medical equipment?
CORE cannot guarantee when service will be restored, or that certain accounts will be given priority over others, so there should always be a contingency plan in place for members who have a medical need for electricity. This includes backup power, extra medical supplies, or an alternate location during an outage. Make sure prescription supplies are adequate and have a first-aid kit handy.
What can I do to help prevent outages?
One of the easiest ways members can help CORE increase the reliability of our system is to report vegetation encroaching on power lines and other equipment. While everyone appreciates the beauty and shade provided by trees, branches growing too close to overhead power lines can cause outages when they contact or fall on the lines, especially during severe weather such as high winds or ice storms. Learn more by visiting our vegetation management webpage.
What should I do if a power line falls in my yard?
Consider all downed wires to be energized, regardless of whether they may appear to be safe. It’s hard to identify power lines from other utility lines, and impossible to tell by visual inspection if a power line is energized. Energy may transfer to objects the wires are in contact with, so remain at least 10 feet away. Report the fallen utility line to us immediately. Make sure your children, pets and neighbors stay away from the wires and any objects it may touch.
How should I prepare for outages?
Have an emergency kit on hand so you are ready for any emergency. Include items like a portable radio, batteries, corded phone, flashlight, medical supplies (including any needed medications), food, water and extra clothing. Store this kit in a designated place so it is easy to find. Learn more about Outage Preparedness on our website and with the American Red Cross’ Power Outage Checklist.
If the power goes out, do I need to throw out all the food in my refrigerator or freezer?
To minimize the loss of food during a power outage, limit the number of times you open your refrigerator or freezer door. If the doors remain closed, refrigerated food can remain safely cold for about four hours, while frozen food can remain safe for two days. Learn more about food safety in a power outage situation on the American Red Cross’ Food Safety webpage.
Should I have a generator in case of a power outage?
If you need guaranteed electricity 24/7 to power life-sustaining medical equipment, you should purchase a generator that can support your equipment during a power outage. It is critical that you follow all installation, maintenance and use guidelines set by the generator manufacturer. Not only can it be extremely dangerous if a generator isn’t used correctly, putting both you and CORE linemen at risk, it is also against the law and a violation of electrical codes to connect a generator to your home without an automatic generator and transfer switch. If a generator produces power during an outage and is improperly connected, it can back feed (or send) power onto CORE’s system and endanger the lives of our crews who are working to restore power. It also can be a major fire hazard. Contact CORE so that we can be sure that the generator is connected and set up correctly by emailing MemberServices@CORE.coop.