When Hurricane Scott approaches Thursday as a category 3 storm, the winds will be fictitious but the work genuine as Gulf Power conducts its annual hurricane drill to test its response system. The utility has a comprehensive plan for any level of hurricane, and its line crews — among the most experienced and storm tested in the nation — have been recognized for restoration efforts following storms that have made landfall all over the Southeast.

 “We prepare year-round for storm restoration,” said Sandy Sims, Public Affairs manager “and our crews are among the best in the nation to restore electricity, safely and quickly. This drill enhances our employees’ awareness and sharpens our skills.”

The company follows a detailed plan to rebuild the electrical system following a hurricane and works closely with the county Emergency Management personnel. Every Gulf Power employee has a storm assignment and if needed, the company brings in thousands of outside utility workers to help — often staging them ahead of time to speed response.

“Everyone knows their assignments and it’s amazing to see our employees come together and implement a restoration plan,” said Sims. “Our storm team will shift into high gear for this drill Thursday — it keeps the process fresh for us so we’re always ready.”

Planning is also important for Gulf Power’s 428,000 customers. Gulf Power’s storm center website offers comprehensive preparation and safety information as well as general storm tips and information how to report outages. The storm center can be accessed at GulfPower.com/storm.

Gulf Power Company is an investor-owned electric utility that serves more than 428,000 customers in 10 counties throughout Northwest Florida. The company’s mission is to safely deliver affordable, reliable and environmentally responsible energy to very satisfied customers in strong communities.

EDITOR’S NOTE:

To cover the drill:

Thursday, May 27 from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Addison Auditorium

500 Bayfront Parkway, Downtown Pensacola

Hurricane Scott Drill: Fictitious Hurricane Scott is currently located at 10.8 N - 51.6W with maximum sustained winds of 125 mph. Current movement is west at 23mph. The potential 1-3 day track has the storm south of the Dominican Republic. The 4-5 day forecast has the storm just north off the coast of Cuba.