FLORIDA, USA — Hurricane Milton is expected to make landfall on Wednesday, and meteorologists are predicting it could be one of the most devastating hurricanes of modern history.
Because Milton is expected to be so destructive, the state of Florida requested Mutual Aid ahead of it making landfall. The Grand Haven Board of Light and Power (BLP) answered the call along with five other Michigan municipal electric line crews and is sending assistance.
The six line crews left early Monday morning so that they could minimize the response time and help as soon as they're needed.
Rob Shelley, BLP general manager, commented “Our thoughts and prayers are with the people of Florida. Mutual Aid is such a critical resource for utilities, and we are honored to assist in the eventual recovery efforts.”
Mutual Aid is an emergency response agreement often used in times of serious disaster where utilities agree to both give and receive assistance for power restoration. Mutual Aid is requested when an electric system is damaged beyond the capabilities of the local electric utility.
When requesting Mutual Aid, the utility will specify the best estimate of skilled utility workers, equipment and materials needed. Other utilities from areas not affected by the damage will then respond with what they can offer.
“The dedication of our workforce extends beyond our local community,” explained Shelley. “We wish our crew members safe travels and thank them for their willingness to assist the people of Florida who are still recovering from the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.”