Fresh electrical crews leave for Florida Thursday

SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- In recent weeks, more that 450 Indiana and Michigan (I&M) employees went to assist Appalachian Power and Kentucky Power after Hurricane Helene. Now, a fresh crew of 479 employees are on their way to Florida to help restore power after Hurricane Milton. 

"Our lineworkers, fleet technicians, tree trimming experts and safety support staff will work 16-hour days repairing and replacing power poles, power lines and if needed, rebuilding portions of the electrical system," I&M said.

After Hurricane Helene, those crews returned home Oct. 7 after 10 days away.

"I&M has fresh crews heading to Florida and a full contingent of lineworkers, tree trimming crews and employees to respond if outages occur at home," I&M said.

The hundreds of workers will be assisting Tampa Electric and Florida Power and Light companies restore service to their customers.

“The dedication to helping each other and our customers is a mainstay of our industry. Restoring power is often the first critical step in rebuilding and restoring normalcy in devastated communities.” said Steve Baker, I&M President, and Chief Operations Officer.

“I’m always impressed with our employee’s willingness to respond – often at a moment’s notice – to help those at home and far away. Thank you and your families for your dedication to helping those who need it most.”