With forecasts calling for a wintry mix this weekend, the Fayetteville Public Works Commission (PWC) is taking proactive steps to ensure our community is prepared for potential weather-related service impacts. PWC prepares year-round for severe weather by clearing trees and limbs away from power lines, inspecting equipment to ensure full efficiency when needed, as well as other winter weather preparations. This proactive
work helps reduce the risk of tree-related outages when snow or ice accumulates on branches and power lines. Additional crews will be activated when needed to restore power and water services safely and competently as conditions allow.
To help prevent electric outages during a winter storm, drivers are urged to stay off the roads as much as possible. The number one cause of power outages for PWC during a winter storm is caused by vehicles losing control and hitting a power pole. Because winter storms can cause unpredictable and extended outages, PWC urges customers to prepare early and stay informed. The Storm Central webpage provides
helpful resources, emergency contacts, and guidance for weathering the storm at  www.FayPWC.com/Storm-Central.
Safety remains PWC’s top priority. Customers using generators during outages should always operate them outdoors, away from windows, to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning and electrical hazards. Improper generator or battery system connections can “backfeed” electricity into power lines, putting both customers and utility crews at risk. PWC also reminds customers to protect their plumbing and irrigation systems during
freezing temperatures by insulating exposed pipes, identifying their master shutoff valve, and checking that backflow prevention devices are properly insulated. Customers can also protect their plumbing when it gets really cold by letting water trickle from exposed pipes to avoid freezing.
Customers can sign up for text alerts as well as monitor real-time outage information, including estimated restoration times that update every 10 minutes, by visiting PWC’s Electric Outage Map at www.FayPWC.com. Customers with questions or who need to report an outage can call PWC’s 24-hour Customer Service Line at (910) 483-1382.