Are You Prepared for an Unexpected Winter Power Outage?

Power outages can happen at any time in Texas, but with the unexpected weather the winter can bring, it’s especially important to stay prepared during the colder months. While many outages are short-lived, being unprepared can make even a brief blackout stressful. With a few simple preparations, you can stay safe and comfortable until the power comes back on. Here’s what you can do to stay ready:

Keep an Emergency Kit on Deck

With how unpredictable the weather can be, every Texan needs an emergency kit with all the essentials on hand. Your emergency kit should include items like:

• Flashlights
• Portable radios
• Extra batteries and portable chargers
• Water bottles and non-perishable foods
• Any necessary medications

Having these items all together in one place makes it easy to grab them when an unexpected outage occurs, especially if it’s due to a snowstorm that leaves you trapped inside. Being prepared gives you peace of mind and keeps everyone safe.

Protect Your Appliances and Electronics

Power surges are common when the electricity comes back on after an outage. Power surges are quick spikes in electricity that are above the normal voltage. This can fry your electronics and appliances, leaving them completely destroyed. If the power goes out, it’s best to unplug all electronic devices and appliances while you wait for the power to come back on.

Plan for How to Keep Warm

During winter outages, keeping warm is a top priority. First, make sure your home is properly insulated and any openings around windows, doors and pipes are properly sealed. You can also invest in thermal curtains for extra insulation. If an outage does occur, layer up in warm clothes and snuggle up in blankets. It’s generally considered safe to light a fire in the fireplace during a winter outage, but make sure the flue is open. If you don’t plan on having a fire going, close the flue to ensure the cold air from outside doens’t creep in.

Stay Informed

Keeping yourself up-to-date about upcoming weather conditions and whether power outages are likely can go a long way in helping you stay prepared. Utility companies usually send out alerts and updates via text, email or social media to keep people informed. The same is true during power outages. Having the latest information is one of the best ways to reduce stress and plan ahead.

Know When to Contact Your Power Company

Sometimes, outages are brief, only lasting a few hours. Other times, outages can last for days. Knowing when to notify your power company is crucial. If the power goes out and doesn’t return within a few minutes, it’s best to let your electricity provider know right then. The sooner they’re aware of the issue, the quicker they can assess the outage, start trying to solve the problem, and provide estimated restoration times. 

Ultimately, staying prepared keeps you and your family comfortable and in control. No matter what the winter weather brings, Pronto Power, your trusted Texas power company, is here to make sure you stay connected and safe.