Crews will 'work around the clock' to restore power, Dominion Energy says

RICHMOND, Va. -- Power crews are ready to respond to potential outages from Tropical Storm Isaias, according to officials with Dominion Energy.

The storm is forecast to track through eastern North Carolina and eastern Virginia Monday night into Tuesday.

A tropical storm watch has been issued for Tuesday for central and eastern Virginia, including the Richmond metro and the Interstate 95 corridor and points east.

Audrey Cannon, a Dominion Energy spokesperson says right now they expect the greatest impact in Eastern and Central Virginia.

She acknowledged that with more people working from home due to the pandemic, they expect more calls when outages hit neighborhoods.

"We are tracking Isaias and encourage Dominion Energy customers to prepare for the possibility of power outages...," Dominion Energy's Jeremy Slayton said. "We will work around the clock to restore service while keeping our colleagues and our customers safe and while practicing proper social distancing and good hygiene."

The power giant released the following tips for customers:

Here’s how you can be ready for any storm:

• Create an emergency kit with flashlights, batteries, cleaning supplies and face coverings.
• Prepare a first-aid kit with bandages, anti-bacterial wipes, over-the-counter medications, and prescription medications.
• Remember to carry your healthcare information with you and to prepare your medical devices, especially if you are disabled or elderly.
• Download the Dominion Energy App to track restoration efforts and report outages quickly and safely.
• Prepare a supply of water and non-perishable food.
• Charge your phone and other electronic devices fully before the storm arrives.
• Make sure your contact information is updated in our system so that we have a way to get in touch with you.

Here’s how you can stay safe:

• Beware of downed power lines. Assume they are energized and dangerous. Very high winds and rain can cause trees and branches to fall, which may bring down power lines. Stay at least 30 feet away and make sure your family, pets, and neighbors also avoid the downed wire. Call Dominion Energy right away at 1-866-DOM-HELP (1-866-366-4357) to speak with an agent to report the downed wire.
• Properly connect your generator. If you have a generator, be sure it is fueled, tested, and properly connected before the severe weather arrives. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and always operate outdoors with good ventilation. Improper use of a generator could be life-threatening for customers and for line crews working to restore power.

If you lose power during the storm, contact Dominion Energy -- or your power provider -- to report the outage.

Call Dominion Energy at 1-866-DOM-HELP (1-866-366-4357) or download the Dominion Energy Outage Center app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.

However, officials said the fastest way to report or track anoutage is online at DominionEnergy.com or via their app.