HOUSTON — A hard freeze Monday night led to many in Houston losing power in the early morning hours.
Between Monday and Tuesday night, CenterPoint Energy said it restored power to nearly 43,000 customers.
With below-freezing temperatures expected again Wednesday, there are some ways to prepare for power outages that may occur.
Among other things, the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) recommends keeping the following items on hand and in a safe place.
- Battery-operated flashlight
- Battery-operated radio
- Charged cellphones
- Power bank
- First aid kit
- Medication
- Extra cash
- Important documents
- Non-perishable food items
- Bottled water
- Cooler and ice
- Blankets/extra clothes
To prepare for an outage, it’s also wise for you to keep your vehicle’s gas tank full.
After a power outage, PUCT recommends checking your circuit breakers and fuse box to identify whether the problem is limited to your home. Afterward, contact your local utility provider so they can assess the issue and begin the process of restoring power. If you see downed power lines, call 911 to report the damage.
It’s recommended you unplug most appliances to prevent power surges and leave just one lamp plugged in and turned “on” to alert you when power is restored.
If you need to use a portable generator, it’s advised to only use it outdoors.