12/09/09 - 17:00 - Normal Operations
Strong Winds - Safety First
With strong winds throughout the state, Ameren Illinois had about 10,000 of 1.2 million homes and businesses lose power today due to strong winds in Downstate Illinois. Most services have been restored. In some cases, Ameren Illinois brought the power back on slowly to protect the natural gas system... as power is restored, furnances kick on and gas starts flowing... too much, too soon can cause pressure issues.
The EOC continues to monitor weather conditions as local operations handle scattered outages. The Ameren Illinois Utilities (AmerenCILCO, AmerenCIPS, AmerenIP) remind customers that personal safety and storm preparedness must be taken seriously."Safety is our first and foremost concern when severe weather strikes," said Ron Pate, vice president of Operations for the Ameren Illinois Utilities."The most important safety rule is to stay clear of downed power lines and always call your Ameren Illinois Utility or ‘911’ if you see downed lines. Assume all downed power lines are energized. Stay inside, especially at night because you may walk into an energized power line. Stay clear of brush, shrubs and downed trees that may hide downed lines."
