My preparation for Sandy included making sure all of my gadgets were charged. I didn’t worry about batteries for flashlights because…well, there’s an app for that. The flashlight app on the iPad or iPhone works great. In the event of power loss my gadgets can be charged in the car…with the garage door open and just to be safe, the car slightly backed out. While East Coasters prepared for Sandy’s arrival, many of my friends at utility companies prepped by hugging their families goodbye. Not just utilities located on the East Coast, either. Crews from far away made the journey to help other utility companies facing Sandy’s wrath.

Most of us prepare for weather disasters by getting to a safe location and loading up on comfort foods. Linemen are often out in dangerous conditions working to restore power. Other utility workers, such as those in the call center, endure long hours and unfriendly voices. We lost power for about 15 hours and as crews arrived, neighbors came out to watch. Some started to complain. I reminded them that most days we have electricity. Surely you don’t think the electric company caused Hurricane Sandy?! So why are you blaming the electric company? Like firemen, policemen and paramedics, linemen and other utility workers are first responders, too. Let’s applaud what they do to keep us comfortable. Below are some pictures of crews working near my home. Thank You!