Energy news from Omaha Public Power District
Energy news from Omaha Public Power District
OPPD has issued alerts about phone scammers who pretend they’re with a utility to steal customers’ money – from a distance. But some of these impostors may be bold enough to show up at your door.
Why would a utility worker make an in-person visit?
There are a number of reasons you might see a legitimate OPPD employee or contractor knocking on your door. These could be employees from areas such as metering, collections, forestry, field or streetlight crews, among others.
OPPD does not make unscheduled visits very often. However, it is possible.
It could happen for a number of reasons, such as the need to investigate a power outage. Crews are instructed to let customers know that they will be on-site and to explain the work they will be doing, if that work is not planned in advance.
In addition, they may arrive to conduct equipment or pole inspections, or obtain meter readings that cannot be captured remotely. They may also stop to follow-up on customer, neighbor, or passerby reports, talk about tree trimming, or let customers know they need access to their yard to work on power equipment.
How do you recognize a legitimate OPPD employee?
- Check their badge: Utility workers’ clothing may vary, but all OPPD employees carry badges. Ask to see identification.
- Call about contractors: Contractors may not carry OPPD identification. But they can describe the work they are doing. Customers are welcome to call OPPD at 402-536-4131 or toll free 877-536-4131 to verify work being done in the area.
OPPD contractors, like these tree trimmers, should be able to describe the work they are doing for OPPD. - Utility work rarely requires inside entry: If OPPD does show up, most of the work they conduct will take place outside of your home or business. Occasionally, technicians may need inside access. Before allowing a worker to enter your home, check to ensure they have the proper credentials. Don’t hesitate to call OPPD to verify the work.
If you are suspicious of anybody claiming to be an OPPD employee or contractor, call the utility. If you feel threatened in any way, shut and lock your door. Then, call 911.
Jodi Baker contributes stories to The Wire in addition to serving as a media liaison for OPPD. She was a reporter, working for news stations from her hometown of Omaha to San Diego, prior to joining the utility in 2013. Jodi has a bachelor’s degree in Broadcasting from the University of Nebraska-Omaha, with a minor in Criminal Justice. She’s married with two older children and two younger dogs – Shi Tzu mixes. She loves watching her daughter’s track meets, going to concerts with her husband Dave, who used to co-host a local music video program, and traveling whenever possible.
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