Winter Power Outages: Stay Safe and Warm in North Texas

Winter is here in North Texas, and with it comes the chance of power outages due to freezing temperatures and ice storms. The National Weather Service in Fort Worth has some tips to help you stay safe and warm if the power goes out. First, try to keep the heat inside your home. Close the curtains and blinds to block out the cold. Close off rooms you don't need to use, and stuff towels under doors to stop heat from escaping. Dress in layers of loose, lightweight clothing for extra warmth. Eating and drinking can also help keep you warm, but avoid alcohol and caffeine. They might make you feel warmer, but they actually make your body lose heat faster. If you have a generator, never use it inside your home. The fumes can be dangerous. Keep it at least 30 feet away from your house. It's a good idea to prepare for a power outage before it happens. Have flashlights and extra batteries ready. If you can, get a generator and learn how to use it safely. Make sure your home is warm and your electronic devices are charged. Stock up on blankets and warm clothes. If you have a fireplace or a standalone indoor heater, make sure they're ready to use. If your power goes out, you can report it to Oncor by calling 888-313-4747 or texting OUT to 66267 if you're registered with My Oncor Alerts. You can also check the outage status online. Remember, staying safe and warm during a power outage is all about being prepared and knowing what to do.