Tornado damage has dominated the news this spring, but in northwest Florida, all thoughts now turn toward hurricane season, which starts June 1. To make sure it is ready for a major weather event, Gulf Power Company will conduct its annual hurricane drill on Tuesday, May 1. 

Gulf Power has a comprehensive plan for any level of hurricane, and has proven that the plan is effective. The 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 Natalie Smith, Gulf Power Media Relations, “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 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.

Gulf Power storm teams also often deploy to help other utilities restore power after weather-related widespread outages.
 

“Providing assistance to other utilities gives us a chance to help others just as they have helped us in the past. The work is long and hard, but we are prepared and willing to help if needed,” Smith said. “Everyone knows their assignments and it’s amazing to see our employees come together and implement a restoration plan – whether here or somewhere else.”

Planning is also important for Gulf Power’s 431,000 customers. Gulf Power’s storm center website offers comprehensive preparation and safety information, as well as general storm tips and directions on how to report outages. The storm center can be accessed at GulfPower.com/storm.

Gulf Power Company is an investor-owned electric utility with all of its common stock owned by Atlanta-based Southern Company. Gulf Power serves more than 431,000 customers in eight counties throughout Northwest Florida. The company’s mission is to safely deliver affordable, reliable and environmentally responsible electric service to our customers while working to improve the communities we serve. Visit online at GulfPower.com or on the company’s Facebook page, “Gulf Power Company.”