PINEVILLE, La. – As forecasters work to determine where Tropical Storm Isaac will make landfall, Cleco is preparing for the storm’s effects and aftermath. 

 “We are finalizing our plans, and we are ready for the storm,” said James Lass, general manager of transmission and distribution support and Cleco’s storm manager. “Last week, when it became clear that the storm would move into the Gulf of Mexico, our storm teams began preparations for Isaac.”

The storm is expected to strengthen to a hurricane, and because of its large size it is expected to bring wind, rain and storm surge to a wide area.

For the past several days, Cleco has been getting ready for possible power restoration in the aftermath of what is expected to be a slow-moving storm. Additional crews are en route and Cleco is securing supplies and hotel rooms while putting all employees on standby.

 “As we continue to prepare, we urge customers to make their own preparations,” said Lass. Cleco offers the following tips for customers preparing for the storm.

• Clear patio furniture and other objects that could move in high winds and cause damage or injury.

• Have plenty of batteries for flashlights and radios.

• Plan ahead for those with special medical needs.

• Plan for the needs of infants by stocking up on baby food, diapers and formula.

• Buy foods that can be eaten without heating and that do not need refrigeration.

• Unplug sensitive electric appliances like computers and televisions to protect them in the event of unpredictable voltage fluctuations. Turn off central air and heat units.

• Never plug a generator directly into a wall outlet. This can cause backfeeding and potentially hurt or kill a worker attempting to repair a power line.

• Stay away from downed lines. Assume all lines are energized and dangerous.

• Call 1-800-622-6537 to report a power outage or dangerous situation.