[CitizenM]

Thanks for the thread. I am about 1-1/2 hr from the coast, in Richmond VA. We are preparing for an experience similar to the one of 2003...power outages, no water or gasoline, etc. We had two weeks without power then. Trees and debris were everywhere, power lines down all over and it took the employees an exhaustive effort to repair the lines. I think this time will be even worse since the hurricane is so large and so much of the East Coast will be affected. We must all get ready to endure hardships for quite a while. So get prepared!

My son works for the power company and employees are going on "storm duty" starting today. Please remember, if you call the power company to report an outage, or ask when you can expect power returned...be polite.

The power company employees who handle those calls suffered quite a bit of stress during the last hurricane that hit this area. Many callers were obusive and impatient and gave the Customer Service people a really tough time, cursing and screaming at them. Remember...When they are on storm duty they often work around the clock with few breaks; many do not go home and even sleep there or in motels nearby. Many stayed there while their families endured problems at home without them. They are a dedicated bunch, there to help and serve the public, so they should be appreciated...not mistreated.

[Gabz]

That is a really good reminder.

[maica]

The power company employees who handle those calls suffered quite a bit of stress during the last hurricane that hit this area. Many callers were obusive and impatient and gave the Customer Service people a really tough time, cursing and screaming at them. Remember...When they are on storm duty they often work around the clock with few breaks; many do not go home and even sleep there or in motels nearby. Many stayed there while their families endured problems at home without them. They are a dedicated bunch, there to help and serve the public, so they should be appreciated...not mistreated.

****

Amen. I am always amazed and saddened by the displays of absolute disregard for the workers who are trying their best to make our lives resume their comfortableness (if that is a word.)

I testified at a state legislature hearing one time about the funding for our local public utility, and used the example that we want the repairmen to be there when the need happens. We want them to be available to go to other locations to help other people, eg Louisiana or Quebec when the need arises. If the company has to work with less money, because of state regulation, they may cut back on this type of employee. Not a good idea!