Storm Preparedness
Texas weather can go from calm to chaotic quickly, with severe weather sometimes causing power outages and other hazards within minutes. That's why we want our CoServ Members to know what to do before, during and after severe weather strikes.
CoServ stays prepared for any possible weather conditions that could cause interruptions for our Members and Customers. Unforeseen circumstances that could cause an outage include lightning strikes, ice on the lines or tree branches, trees coming in contact with power lines or vehicles hitting CoServ poles and other equipment. Our crews are trained to respond as quickly and safely as possible 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Their goal is to provide safe and reliable service for our Members and Customers.
Here are some important things to remember:
- Never touch, play or get near power lines. Click here to learn more about Power Line Safety.
- Follow manufacturer guidelines when using portable generators. Never operate them in the garage or near a door or window.
- Never use a gas oven to heat your home.
- Never leave a space heater unattended and keep anything that's flammable at least three feet away from the space heater when it's on.
Before the Storm
- Have adequate supplies on hand before a storm arrives. The supply checklist below is designed to keep you and your family safe in the event that a severe storm hits your area.
- Unplug any appliances prior to major storms. Electronics are sensitive to electrical spikes from lightning or power surges. By unplugging them in advance, you can protect them from damage.
- Prepare a storm kit at home and one to keep in your car with extra flashlights, batteries, bottled water, and canned food. It’s better to be prepared rather than left scrambling to gather supplies once your power is out!
During the Storm
- Stay tuned to local weather through the radio and/or television broadcasts and take shelter when ordered.
- Unplug appliances prior to major storms because electronics are sensitive to electrical spikes from lightning or power surges.
- Have the aforementioned supply checklist handy, especially if you have a power outage or other storm damage or hazards present.
After the Storm
- Look out for storm damage
- If you see downed or damaged power lines, maintain your distance, call 911 immediately and then call CoServ's electric emergency line at 855-938-3496.
- If your power is out, try to leave your refrigerator and freezer closed as much as possible. Food will remain frozen for up to 48 hours so long as the door remains closed and the unit is in solid working condition.
- Backup power generators must be installed properly or they could become hazardous for the public, and especially, the linemen working to restore power in your area. Always follow all instructions for installing and using generators and, if they are connected to your home's electrical system, make sure the generator has a transfer switch.
- Gas generators also emit carbon dioxide exhaust, a silent threat that can lead to injury or even death. Be sure to keep the generator away from the house when it's running so it can vent properly. Never put it in the garage or near a window. Learn more about Carbon Monoxide and Generator Safety.