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CPU Shares Tips for Year-Round Storm Preparation

Stay prepared for potential severe weather in every season

When the groundhog predicted six more weeks of winter, he wasn’t kidding. And while the Delta Region has enjoyed a few spring-like days this year, more cold, wintry weather is likely.

That’s why Clarksdale Public Utilities reminds everyone to keep their storm prep plans in place not only during these last weeks of winter, but as we move into spring as well.

“No matter what season we’re in, CPU is prepared for unpredictable, disruptive weather events, and we encourage our customers to stay prepared, too,” said Curtis D. Boschert, CPU general manager. “Not only are we performing proactive maintenance, but our crews are ready to safely restore power whenever outages occur.”

Mississippi recently joined other states in recognizing the National Weather Service’s annual Severe Weather Preparedness Week to raise awareness and provide guidance on how to stay safe in different types of severe weather events.

Even as we look forward to warmer temps and sunny days, residents are reminded that the rising thermometer also has the potential to bring severe storms our way. In fact, some weather forecasters are predicting a near- to slightly above-normal number of damaging thunderstorms and tornadoes, with the highest risk expected in and around the Gulf Coast and mid-Mississippi Valley regions.

In preparing for severe weather at your home or business, consider these proactive steps:

• Sign up for emergency alerts or install an app on your smart phone to know when severe weather is in the area.
• Have a weather radio with a loud alarm that wakes you when severe weather threatens at night.
• Make sure every family member knows and practices your household’s personal emergency evacuation and shelter plan.
• Keep an emergency kit on hand.
• Make a list of important personal information including telephone numbers and insurance details.
• Make sure all prescriptions are up-to-date and filled.
• Have several days of water and non-perishable food, as well as flashlights and batteries stocked and available for use if needed.

More tips about preparing for severe weather and staying safe during emergencies are available on the Coahoma County EMA website at http://www.coahomacounty.net/ema/.

As always, CPU reminds customers to stay away from downed power lines and always practice situational awareness when working near power lines and electrical equipment.

“We always prepare the worst and hope for the best,” Boschert said. “As part of our Bright Future initiative, CPU is continuously looking for ways to improve our performance during normal operations and during storm response efforts. Keeping customers and crews safe is our top priority.”

To report a power outage, water leak or any other service-related issue, customers should call CPU at 662-627-8499. For downed power lines or any other potentially life-threatening power emergency, call 662-627-8499, or 911 after hours.

Clarksdale Public Utilities is a municipally owned utility serving approximately 6,800 homes and businesses in Clarksdale, Mississippi. Its mission is to safely provide sustainable electric, water and wastewater services in a reliable and courteous manner by well-trained team members, committed to top quality, efficient operations, competitive rates and the vitality of the community.