Seasonal Storm
Preparation & Outages
At Western Iowa Power Cooperative, safety is our #1 priority. Learn how to prepare for seasonal storms and what to do in the event of an outage below.
Spring and Summer Storms
If you are outside, head inside immediately to avoid being caught in the storm. No place outside is safe when thunderstorms are in the area. Stay away from windows, go to the lowest level of your home, avoid electrical equipment, and have your emergency kit within reach.
Tornadoes, high winds, heavy rain, and lightning can leave destruction in their paths. Once a severe storm has passed, it does not mean the dangers have.
If power lines are damaged, that does not mean they are dead. Please stay away from downed power lines, stray wires, and debris in contact with them. Instruct others to do the same. Call 911 to notify your local utility.
In the immediate aftermath of a storm:
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Listen to your weather radio or a local radio station for updated information and instructions.
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Never enter a flooded basement if electrical outlets, appliances, or cords are underwater. The water could be energized.
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Do not turn the power off if you must stand in water. Call your utility and have them turn off the power at the meter.
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Before entering storm-damaged buildings, make sure electricity and gas are turned off.
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If you smell gas or suspect a leak, leave the house immediately and call 911 and your local utility. Do not light an open flame or flip any switches in the house.
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If at all possible, remain at home and off the roadways to allow emergency responders and utility crews easy access to damaged areas or injured individuals.
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Never drive through a flooded roadway. Turn around, don't drown!
Winter Storms
Tasks that can be completed well in advance of a storm are to have WIPCO or a tree-trimming professional remove limbs that could fall on power lines if they become covered in ice or snow, to insulate your home by installing storm windows or plastic covering on windows, caulk cracks in your home, and to make sure your heating system is in proper working order.
If your power goes out due to a winter storm, you might be in for a prolonged power outage as crews work through the harsh weather to get your power back on. If you find yourself in this situation, contact your power provider as soon as you can so they know you have lost power.
Other actions you can take to be safe and comfortable:
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Stay inside and dress in warm, layered clothing.
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Close off any unneeded rooms.
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When using an alternative heat source, follow operating instructions, use fire safeguards, and be sure to properly ventilate. Always keep a multipurpose, dry-chemical fire extinguisher nearby and know how to use it.
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Cover windows at night.
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Keep a close eye on the temperature of your home.
General Storm Prep
Western Iowa Power Cooperative keeps an eye on the weather, especially weather that is forecasted to impact our area. Severe weather brings with it a chance of power outages. WIPCO members, please call 1-800-253-5189 to report all outages. Our phones are answered 24/7/365. Please note that WIPCO crews will be ready to make repairs during and after storms as soon as outdoor conditions are safe. WIPCO encourages all members to have a storm emergency kit on hand. We recommend including the following items:
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Water (one gallon, per person, per day)
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Food (three-day supply of non-perishables)
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Flashlights
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First-Aid Kit/Prescriptions
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Extra batteries/wireless phone chargers
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Manual Can Opener
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Moist Towelettes
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Extra Pet Food
Should severe storm-related power outages occur, check for updates and restoration efforts by following us on Facebook. Please remember that the only way to report outages is by calling our offices at 712-263-2943 or our toll-free number at 1-800-253-5189.
For more safety information, visit SafeElectricty.org.