For the second time in a month, Florida Power & Light Co. (FPL) deployed employees and contractors to support power restoration following a hurricane. A first wave of more than 300 employees and contractors will assist Entergy Louisiana and Entergy Texas with their restoration efforts in the aftermath of Tropical Storm Marco and Hurricane Laura. The workers, who began their journey on the morning of Aug. 25, will travel to Louisiana and Texas to help wherever they are needed.
"Our thoughts and prayers go out to our Gulf Coast neighbors as they prepare for the damage and destruction that will likely follow being hit by a tropical storm and then a hurricane in the same week," said Eric Silagy, FPL president and CEO. "Earlier this month, 600 FPL lineworkers and contractors helped restore power to our fellow citizens in New Jersey in the aftermath of Hurricane Isaias. As the tropics continue to produce storms that affect other areas of the country, we stand at the ready to assist our fellow Americans. These storms are a reminder that we must not let our guard down as we reach the peak of what is forecast to be a very active hurricane season."
Because of the pandemic, crews will follow safety guidelines to keep everyone safe, including social distancing, increased sanitation measures and wearing masks where appropriate. Signs on trucks remind the public to honor the 6-ft social distancing requirements that help keep the crews safe while they work.
"In the state of Florida, Aug. 26 is recognized as Lineworker Appreciation Day — a time to recognize the vital work our men and women do every day," said Manny Miranda, FPL senior vice president for power delivery. "Severe weather events provide an opportunity for our lineworkers to show their commitment to safety, to their profession, and to those who seek their help. Our team is ready to face the challenges posed in the aftermath of these storms and the pandemic, taking extra measures to ensure their and the public's safety."
Providing mutual assistance after natural disasters is a hallmark of the energy industry. In 2018, FPL crews deployed four times to assist in power restoration efforts after a natural disaster, some working six months away from home. FPL crews also helped restore power in the Bayamon region of Puerto Rico in the aftermath of Hurricane Maria.
