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For Release: 06/24/2010
Power Still Out to 8,500 Northern Wisconsin WPS Customers
Green Bay, WI – All available Wisconsin Public Service (WPS) restoration crews have been transferred to the areas hit hardest by last night's storms. Currently, more than 100 line electricians, including 10 from Upper Peninsula Power Company, are working in the Wabeno (5000+ out), Wausaukee (3000+ out), and Rhinelander (200 out) areas.
Tree clearing crews must first rid roads of trees and debris so that restoration crews can get in to areas to restore electricity. Crews are working in the most efficient geographic sweeps through areas. Work will continue until all power is restored, most of which should be restored by this evening.
WPS reminds residents that safety is paramount as power lines can get tangled up in fallen tree limbs and branches. All downed power lines should be treated as if they are energized and people should stay far away from them. Customers are encouraged to call 800 450-7240 if they come across potentially dangerous looking situations.
- Stay away from downed or sagging power lines, and do not touch anything that is on or near them (i.e., trees or tree limbs, cars, ladders).
- Keep children and family pets away from areas where lines may have fallen (backyards, fields, school yards, etc.).
- If a power line falls across a car that you're in, stay in the car. If you MUST get out of the car due to a fire or other immediate danger, jump clear of the car and land on both feet. Be sure that no part of your body is touching the car when your feet touch the ground.
- Report all power line hazards to WPS or your local emergency services agency.
Customers and media with access to the internet, can track storm restoration efforts on the WPS website at www.wisconsinpublicservice.com. Access the "Report an Outage or Service Problem" icon in the lower right and then "View Current Electric Outages."
Customers with a damaged service line to their residence may need to hire a local electrical contractor to repair their facility before WPS will be able to restore power.
WPS restoration crews, public safety officials and everyone involved in the restoration effort are asking for everyone to be patient and safe while work continues.
For More Information, Contact:
- Media Hotline
(800) 977-2250
- Wisconsin Public Service Customer Service
800-450-7260