Emergency Information

Morristown Utility Systems makes every possible effort to provide inexpensive and reliable electric and water service to our customers. However, on occasion a power outage affecting you may occur. Several factors may be the reason for these outages. Some of the most common reasons are automobile accidents involving power poles, fallen trees or limbs on the lines, and storms.
If you are experiencing an outage, please follow the steps below to assist us in restoring your power.
- Determine if the entire house is without electric or water service. Do some electrical outlets or lights work but not others? Are water problems limited to one area in your house?
- If your electricity is off, check the switchbox for tripped breakers or blown fuses. Main disconnect switches may be located outside under the meter base or at another location in your home. If you are out of water, make sure all valves inside your house are “open”.
- Determine if you are the only house without utility services of if others in your neighborhood are also without power or water.
After reporting the outage, turn off all electrical equipment including heating/cooling systems, electric water heaters, and electrical appliances. Turning off these items will help reduce the initial demand for energy when the power is restored. If the initial demand for energy is too great the power may go off again. Some other electrical appliances or equipment to consider may include:
- VCRs & TV sets
- Stereos
- Microwave Ovens
- Refrigerators & Freezers
- Washers & Dryers
How power is restored during an emergency:
We realize the importance of your electrical and water service and Morristown Utility Systems tries to restore services as quickly as possible to largest number of customers first. This is usually accomplished by repairing and restoring power to facilities in the following order:
- Bulk power 161 kV delivery point substations
- 69 kV transmission feeders
- 13.2 kV distribution substations
- 13.2 kV distribution three phase feeders
- 7.62 kV distribution single phase taps
- Individual distribution transformer stations
- Individual dwellings and businesses
How we prepare to minimize power outages:
Morristown Utility Systems maintains an aggressive maintenance program of inspections, pole replacements, tree replacements, tree trimming and state-of-the-art system facility upgrades to help minimize the number of outages to our customers. Employees and crews are well trained in the latest techniques of engineering, construction, maintenance, and service restoration.
When severe weather conditions are expected, MUS mobilizes employees and fleet vehicles to prepare for all unexpected outages and any customer needs that may result from inclement weather. Contract line crews and our tree trimming contractor are alerted and placed on standby should their services be needed. Morristown Utility Systems’ employees are dedicated to restoring power and water to our customers as quickly as possible and are willing to work around the clock until every customer has their utility services back on.
Protect your water pipes from freezing:

Should pipes become frozen, it is recommended to either allow for normal thawing or use a hand held hair dryer. Never use a torch or open flame of any kind on water pipes. During the thawing process, carefully notice water leaking from pipes and joints. New leaks may develop from frozen pipes that have become damaged due to the expansion of water as it freezes.