With Tropical Storm Don predicted to make landfall on the South Texas coast as early as Friday evening, CPS Energy is staying in contact with the National Weather Service and monitoring the storm’s progress. The utility’s field crews are on alert and will be ready to respond to any damage. The storm is estimated to have 30 to 40 miles per hour winds when it moves inland and potential heavy rain.

CPS Energy is advising customers to be prepared for potential storm-related outages by taking the following steps in advance of the storm:

• Have a flashlight, batteries and battery-powered radio ready and nearby.
• Have an emergency plan in place, especially for households with critical care needs. Identify and be prepared to go to an alternate location in case of a power outage.
• Use surge protectors to protect electronic equipment as much as possible.
• Be prepared with non-perishable food that does not require use of a stove or microwave.

 If an outage occurs:

• Use caution with candles and read the manufacturer’s instructions for generators. Unattended candles are a fire hazard. Improperly used or connected generators can result in carbon monoxide poisoning or present an electrocution risk for others.
• Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed. The U.S. Department of Agriculture estimates some foods may stay cold safely for up to 4 hours if the refrigerator is unopened. A full freezer will stay cold for approximately 48 hours (24 hours if half full).
• Keep one light on to help determine when the power is restored.
• Turn off breakers to high energy users such as water heaters and AC/electric furnaces. Leaving these items on can delay power restoration.
• STAY AWAY FROM DOWNED POWER LINES. Treat all lines as if they are live.
• Report downed lines or outages. Call 353-HELP or 1-(800)870-1006 in rural areas.

For more information or to view power outage locations, visit www.cpsenergy.com.