Pedernales Electric Cooperative (PEC), Canyon Lake’s electric provider, today emailed customers with tips on preparing for the hard freeze expected on Monday and Tuesday.
“We know you depend on us to keep the lights on, and we work around the clock to strengthen the system and reduce potential outages,” the company said. “If your power goes out, our crews stand ready to get it restored any time, day or night.”
The Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) said it will closely monitor winter weather moving in over the weekend and will deploy all available tools to reliably manage the grid.
Daily updates will be posted to social media beginning Monday. Real-time and extended grid conditions are available at ercot.com.
“At this time, grid conditions are expected to be normal, and there is not a current expectation of an energy emergency,” ERCOT said on Twitter.
PEC said crews stand ready to restore power to customers in the event of power outages.
PEC’s Tips for Preparing for & Surviving Wintry Weather
- Prepare an emergency kit and store it in a designated spot that’s easily available. Items should include flashlights, batteries, bottled water, nonperishable food, blankets, matches, medication, pet supplies, battery banks for charging devices, all-weather radio, multipurpose tool, air-activated heat packs, hand sanitizer, a list of important numbers including PEC account number and PEC’s outage reporting and emergency line — 888-883-3379.
- Report and check outages. Check main breakers before calling PEC. Visit outages.pec.coop or call 888-883-3379.
- Sign up for SMS alerts, a one-way text alert service by PEC. Information includes prolonged power interruptions and mandated rolling outages.
- Download PEC’s SmartHub app for quick access to report and track outages.
- Insulate external water lines on your water heater to help keep pipes warm and save money. Remove and store garden hoses and cover exposed water lines and spigots. Drip faucets when temperatures drop below freezing.
- Falling tree branches are a common cause of property damage and power outages. Trim trees close enough to damage your home. Never trim trees within 10 feet of power lines. PEC will do this for free.
- Check weatherstripping on windows and doors and seal leaks with caulk or replacement strips. Addressing air leaks may save you up to 20% on your heating bill.
- Develop a plan in case of prolonged outages. Know where and when to seek shelter if needed.
- PEC will communicate with customers via Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
- Pick the lowest temperature you’re comfortable with and set your thermostat there – 68 degrees or lower is recommended.
- Keep drapes and blinds closed, except when windows are in direct sunlight.
- Close doors to unoccupied rooms to help warm your home faster.
- In the event of an outage keep lights and appliances off to avoid overloading circuits when power is restored. Leave only one light on as a signal to know when power is restored.
- Make sure fireplaces are clean and working properly before using them.
- Don’t use a stove or oven for heat. Gas stoves and ovens produce carbon monoxide. Electric ones pose a fire risk when not used as designed.
- Don’t run your car in the garage as a way of warming up. Only run the car outside. Before you start it make sure that the exhaust pipe is clear of snow and debris. Taking these steps could save you and your family from carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Never run a generator closer than 20 feet from doors and windows to prevent fumes from entering the house.
- Check on elderly relatives, neighbors, and friends, especially if they live alone.
- Bring pets inside and provide blankets, shelter, and water for livestock.
