TULSA, Okla. — Ice and freezing temperatures bring the threat of power outages.
PSO crews are on standby watching temps intently for the potential of widespread blackouts.
“A kind of more slightly elevated sense of urgency this week in making sure that we are prepared and ready to respond to anything that comes up," Stan Whiteford, spokesperson for Public Service Company of Oklahoma, said.
Whiteford told 2 Works for You crews are on standby and ready to respond.
2 Works for You meteorologists forecast freezing temperatures throughout the week. Chances for slick rain scattered throughout the forecast.
Temperatures in the teens cause potential trouble for electrical equipment providing power to homes and businesses.
“In extreme cold weather like this, we understand that any outage could be a significant outage for the person experiencing it. So, we want to make sure that we’re doing whatever we can," Whiteford said.
Whiteford said PSO has 800 crew members stationed statewide waiting for any calls of widespread outages. He said homeowners need to be just as prepared.
“Just kind of look outside if you can. Determine whether or not you think you’re the only one without power, if you can see lights on at other place, or if it looks like your neighborhood, or all business or whatever may be out," Whiteford said.
Whiteford suggests owning a battery-powered light source to shine through the dark. He also suggests setting up a safe, hazard-free heater with proper ventilation.
He also said to keep a cell phone charged for when the time comes to call an outage in.
Possible slick roads for PSO workers cause longer travel times and even more reason to be ready to hunker down with essentials.
“Our crews out in the field working under challenging conditions when necessary but doing everything they can to make sure that they keep the lights on or get them back on for anybody that loses them," Whiteford said.
If you have an outage to report, call PSO's toll-free line at 888-218-3919.
Visit PSO's website to view their interactive power outage map and find out more ways to stay safe and prepared for a power outage.
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