SAN ANTONIO – CPS Energy is prepared for potential outages resulting from what might be the heaviest rain of the year. Crews are on alert to respond during the overnight hours if needed.
"We anticipate heavy rains and strong winds could result in widespread power interruptions and have positioned ourselves to respond as quickly as possible if our customers experience outages," said Rick Maldonado, senior director distribution construction and maintenance. "We will work though the evening, if necessary, to ensure our customers are back on as soon as possible."
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CPS Energy reminds customers that power outages can be reported through their website using their smart phone or tablets.
Customers can prepare for power outages at home by:
- Locating flashlights and ensuring they have fresh batteries;
- Charging their phones, laptops or other electronic devices;
- Updating their alert preferences through Manage My Account; this will keep them informed as to the status of their power outage.
During a power outage, customers should:
- Stay informed view latest outages on CPS Energy's outage map and receive updates through Facebook and Twitter.
- Stay away from downed power lines! Treat all wires as if they are "live" (energized). Report damaged power lines immediately by calling 911 and CPS Energy at 353-4327.
- Protect electronic devices such as televisions, stereos, computers, printers with a power strip equipped with a surge protector to avoid sudden spikes and surges that could damage electrical devices when power is restored.
- Keep one light turned on to know when power has been restored.
- Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed to keep food cold longer. According to the American Red Cross, an unopened refrigerator will keep foods cold for about 4 hours. Also, a full freezer will keep the temperature for 48 hours if the door remains closed.
- Use caution with candles and generators, carefully placing them so as not to create a fire or carbon monoxide poisoning hazard.
- Use caution when driving, as traffic signals may be disrupted. Turn around don't drown.
To report an outage, call 353-HELP (4357). To view a near real-time map of affected areas, visit cpsenergy.com and click on Outage Center.