A message from our friends at Lea County Electric Coop Inc. Regarding Fire Danger:

Wildfire Safety and Preparedness

April 25, 2018-Lovington, NM —High wind season brings in the dangers of grass fires in our area. Lea County Electric Cooperative, Inc. (LCEC) is on high alert when there are fire watches or warnings. When a grass fire occurs, and members are affected, LCEC is there to help first responders and restore power to our members in the quickest and safest way possible.

Due to the ongoing drought conditions affecting our service area we are at a higher risk than normal for potential damaging wild fires.

Here are some wildfire safety tips from National Weather Service:
• Properly discard cigarettes.
• Keep vehicles off dry grass.
• Avoid activities with open flames or sparks.
• Avoid power equipment that creates sparks.
• Obey burn bans.
National Fire Protection Association’s tips on what to do to prepare yourself for fire watches or warnings:
• Make sure there’s at least a 72-hour supply of important medications in your go-bag.
• Know which personal items, (pictures, documents, etc.) have been prioritized to take if time permits if evacuation is necessary.
• Remove deck/patio furniture, cushions, and doormats to prevent ember ignitions.
• Remove portable propane tanks from the deck/patio.
• Know how to turn off the gas to your home.
• Place a ladder against the house (for Fire Department use).
• Have your garden hose connected (for Fire Department use).
• Make sure windows, doors and garage doors are closed.
• Make sure vehicle windows and doors are closed that will remain at the residence while you’re evacuated.

If you see a wildfire, call 9-1-1 right away and then call us at 575-396-3631.

Established in May 1949, Lea County Electric Cooperative, Inc. is a member-owned cooperative headquartered in Lovington, New Mexico with branch offices in Tatum, New Mexico, and Plains, Texas.
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For more information, please contact Rosie Insilan at 575-396-3631 or 1-800-510-5232.