PHOTO: Courtesy of WPS
FOX VALLEY, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — With the fluctuation in weather during the spring months, Wisconsinites have to stay prepared for anything.
Those preparations extend to Wisconsin Public Service, according to spokesperson Matt Cullen.
“We constantly monitor weather forecasts and conditions all throughout the year to determine what, if any, impact they’re going to have on our customers and our systems,” Cullen said. “That’s no different than what we’re doing now.”
Cullen said they’re aware of the potential for freezing rain, ice and snow over the weekend and are taking necessary precautions — which include keeping their road crews on standby.
“Preparing themselves so that, whatever their role might be, they can respond and they can assist with whatever steps are needed to be able to restore power to any customers who have been impacted by a weather situation,” he explained.
Eric Miller, manager of engineering and project management at Kaukauna Utilities, says they’re no different. The provider will be keeping its fleet of service trucks ready to go for the weekend.
“We take icing events, all Mother Nature events — ice storms and such — very seriously,” said Miller. “We are staffed here 24/7, 365. Our system operation center will be actively monitoring these events.”
During serious weather events, Kaukauna Utilities said it’s always important to steer clear of downed power lines, and to stay home to stay safe.
“Even getting close enough — not even touching it, just getting close — could seriously hurt you,” Miller said. “So just let the professionals take care of it. Give us a call. We’ll get out there as fast as we can.”
He also shared some tips on how to prepare for power outages that may occur during this prolonged spring storm.
“You’re out of power, don’t need to keep checking your fridge every 15 minutes to make sure it’s thawing. These things I think most Wisconsinites are used to. Make sure you’re well supplied, so if an event does last multiple days. Know where you need to go, if you do need to take action,” he said.
Cullen added that road crews often work right beside the roadway, and residents should give them ample space to work.
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