Business & Tech

NOVEC Prepared for Manassas Park Winter Storm Power Outages

Northern Virginia Electric Cooperative officials said they are ready to restore power if the snow causes branches to fall on lines.

Manassas Park's energy provider, Northern Virginia Electric Cooperative (NOVEC) is already prepared for the snow storm expected to hit the area hard Wednesday and Thursday.

“All NOVEC and contract crews are prepared to restore electric service if snow-heavy trees and branches fall onto power lines and knock out power,” said Larry Shaffer, vice president of NOVEC system operations. “We’ve called in extra contract crews and we’ll have NOVEC employees available to work around the clock starting tonight.”  

Utility trucks are filled and loaded with extra equipment while tree crews have sharpened their chainsaws and readied them for use, NOVEC staff said.

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Shaffer said wet snow is notorious for knocking branches into power lines.

The company said NOVEC damage assessment personnel will scout ahead of crews to help locate fallen trees and branches.

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As a reminder customers should never go anywhere near downed lines. 

“If you see a line that’s down, assume it’s energized and deadly. Keep others far away and report it immediately to us at 703-335-0500 or 1-888-335-0500.” 

How to Prepare for Power Outages:

  • Update your home and cell phone numbers with NOVEC has their current phone numbers. The Co-op’s system can now accommodate two phone numbers.  Customers who use cellphones and have not registered their numbers should call 703-335-0500 or 1-888-335-0500 to associate their numbers with their accounts.
  • Charge cellphones. Cordless phones don’t work when power is out.
  • Have a plan for elderly or disabled family members.
  • Have non-perishable food, water, flashlights with fresh batteries, battery-operated radio, lanterns, canned fuel, matches, and first aid. If applicable, have enough prescription drugs, pet food, and baby-care items.
  • Stock up on firewood if you need it and cover it with a tarp or stack some in a carport or garage to keep it the snow.
  • Unplug all electronics to protect them from power surges sometimes triggered trees and limbs contacting power lines.

Power Out?

Report outages via the WEB at novec.com on smartphones through and novec.com/mobileNOVEC’s smartphone application is also available. Do not report outages to NOVEC via social media. 


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