With tomorrow's forecast predicting colder temperatures and a mix of ice turning to rain, leading to hazardous icy spots and dangerous travel conditions across our service territory, it's important to prepare for potential power outages and bad weather.

Key Reminders:

• Stay Informed: Monitor local weather updates and official advisories to stay informed about changing conditions.

• Prepare for Power Outages: Ensure you have flashlights, batteries, and other essential supplies on hand.

• Avoid Travel: Stay off the roads during icy conditions to reduce the risk of accidents.

• Protect Vulnerable Individuals: Check on elderly neighbors and those with special needs to ensure they are safe and have necessary supplies.

• Stay Indoors: Limit outdoor activities to prevent injuries from slips and falls on icy surfaces.

Be sure to explore the SRE Winter Weather Prep site, which has all the info you need to stay safe during the upcoming ice storm, including tips for power outages, emergency kits, and more. https://srestormprep.my.canva.site/prepping-for-winter-weather-mobile

Be mindful of your energy use:

The actions you take today will impact your electricity bill next month.

Regardless of the thermostat setting, your heating system’s role is to maintain that temperature. For example, if the outside temperature is 23 degrees and your thermostat is set to 68, your heating system will need to run much more to bridge the 45-degree difference and keep your home warm.

• Set your thermostat to 68 degrees or as low as you comfortably can. A higher thermostat setting means your heater will run longer, using more electricity.
• Add extra blankets to your bed and lower the thermostat while you sleep.
• Weatherstrip doors and windows to prevent warm air from escaping and cold air from entering.
• Close the fireplace damper when not in use.
• Check and replace your air filter as needed.
• Set your water heater to 120 degrees, and consider using a water heater blanket and insulation on your hot water pipes to reduce heat loss.

Simple Tips to Help Save Energy This Winter

Seal Gaps and Insulate

• Close drafts with weather stripping or caulking.
• Insulate windows and pipes to keep the chill out.

Adjust Your Thermostat

• Lower the temp by 7-10° for 8 hours/day to save up to 10%.
• Use a programmable thermostat for hands-free energy savings.

Smart Heating

• Use space heaters in small, occupied rooms only—safely.
• Maintain your heating system with regular checkups and clean filters.

Ceiling Fans in Reverse

• Circulate warm air by setting fans to rotate clockwise at low speed.

Harness Sunlight

• Open curtains during the day, close them at night to trap heat.
• Layer Up
• Stay warm with cozy clothes and blankets instead of raising your thermostat.

Save Hot Water

• Lower your water heater temp to 120°F and take shorter showers.

Additional Resources:

• FEMA's Winter Storm Preparedness Guide: Offers comprehensive advice on preparing for winter weather. https://shorturl.at/v4eXn

• National Weather Service Winter Hazards Information: Provides detailed information on winter weather safety. https://shorturl.at/QN9kj