Power Restoration Efforts in Laurens County After Hurricane Helene
Laurens County, a community known for its warm-hearted residents and beautiful landscapes, has recently faced a tough challenge following the impact of Hurricane Helene. The storm left a trail of destruction, particularly when it came to power outages that affected many homes and businesses. As the community rallied together, first responders were out in full force, ensuring that aid reached those in dire need.
The Aftermath of the Storm
It’s hard to imagine life without the essentials we often take for granted, such as electricity. After Hurricane Helene swept through, the lack of power became a significant concern for many residents. Emergency crews quickly got to work, clearing roadways, assisting with damaged homes, and distributing much-needed supplies like water and food. However, the heartfelt and urgent need across Laurens County was to restore electricity.
Bringing the Lights Back On
As the sun began to rise on the recovery efforts, line crews from different states gathered in Laurens County, all dedicated to bringing the lights back to homes that were dark and quiet. One of those hardworking linemen, TJ Burke, from the City of Clinton, shared their experience. “The storm wiped our whole system out. We worked for seven or eight days straight, for 16 hours a day,” Burke explained. Despite the exhaustion, Burke and his team maintained their commitment, working hard while their own homes remained without power.
The Life of a Lineman
Fascinatingly, the crew in Clinton operates as a close-knit team. While many crews across the country have various levels of job responsibilities, Burke noted that their group is skilled in multiple areas, allowing them to tackle various tasks on-site. “It’s a lifestyle. You have a certain mindset,” Burke stated, reflecting not just on the sacrifices made but also on the fulfillment of their work. He shared personal stories of missing Christmas mornings and birthdays, yet knowing that getting the power back on for families brought immeasurable joy.
The Dangers of the Job
Burke also highlighted the risks involved in the job. In fact, linemen are listed among the top 10 most dangerous jobs in the country. There are numerous safety protocols to follow, but the physical demands and the requirement for precise coordination make it a high-stakes occupation. “You can’t make a mistake and say you’re sorry,” Burke stated, underscoring the seriousness of their work.
Paying It Forward
Once the power was restored in Laurens County, Burke and his crew were called upon once more. The City of Clinton was asked to send five linemen—Cole, Eric, Jake, Justin, and TJ—to Orlando, Florida, to assist with Hurricane Milton recovery efforts. “So, we got to return the favor,” Burke said, expressing gratitude for the chance to help others in need. Their time in Florida allowed them to further their skills and support fellow linemen during a challenging time.
A Community Together
Burke shared that in addition to their hard work, the atmosphere in Florida was supportive, with hundreds of linemen from various locations all collaborating to restore power. “We had access to all the material we needed and we got power back on for residents,” he remarked, revealing the spirit of camaraderie that exists among those in the profession.
As the Clinton Fire Department aptly summed it up: “Just neighbors helping neighbors.” This phrase rings true as we witness the collective efforts of every individual, from first responders to utility workers, coming together during a time of crisis. In the end, it’s a powerful reminder of how even through the toughest times, the spirit of community can shine bright.
