What happens when the lights go out? Many of our members instantly turn to their phones, email, and social media to reach out and inform us about their power outage, hoping to learn more and ensure it’s restored as soon as possible. But did you know that in most cases, before you can dial our office number, your electric meter has already sent a message to our outage system communicating the interruption of power flowing to your home?
While we don’t instantly know the cause of the outage, or what it will take to repair, the first step in restoring an outage is simply knowing about it so we can investigate, assign a crew if needed, and finally complete the repairs along the way to getting your home (and our system) back to normal.
What is changing?
In an effort to improve proactive communication with members during outages, starting in September, South Central Power will enroll all members who have a cell phone number on file with the cooperative in our Outage Text Alert system. A portion of our membership already receives these messages, but we’ve eliminated the need for members to go through a multi-step process to opt in, and instead will allow members to opt out if they wish to no longer receive Outage Text Alerts. At the same time, we’ve improved internal systems that will minimize the possibility of sending inaccurate outage texts based on predictions of outages or restorations.
What can members expect?
If you have a cell phone number on file with South Central Power, you’ll receive a text message from us in early September stating the following:
A Message from South Central Power: We are enhancing our service to provide you with more timely and accurate information about power outages via text. Future text messages about power outages will be sent from “740-422-6888” and will begin with the phrase “SCP outage:” To opt out at any time, respond with “STOP.” Message and data rates may apply, contact your cellular provider for details.
When a power outage is detected at your location, you’ll receive a text message so you know we are working on it. You’ll also get a message when power is restored, as well as if an estimated time of restoration is created or updated.
Can I still report an outage if I don’t receive a text?
Yes, you can always report an outage using our app, the My Account feature of our website, or by calling us at 800-282-5064 and using our automated system. If you have a cell phone number tied to your account, you can also text “OUT” to 740-422-6888.
How do I know if my cell phone number is on file?
You can add or change a cell phone number associated with your account using our app or by logging into our website. You can also call a member service representative Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., at 800-282-5064 or use the live chat feature of our website from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Making sure that you have both a cell phone and email address on file with South Central is a good idea because we use those communication channels to keep you informed about power outages, bill notifications, and scheduled work such as tree trimming and utility construction in your area.