Cleco Power continues to monitor Tropical Storms Marco and Laura, as they remain a threat to the company’s service territory. 

“We are monitoring both storms and their potential impact on our customers,” said James Lass, director of distribution operations and emergency management.  “We expect strong winds and heavy rain will cause power outages, and we have secured the additional resources and equipment needed to respond quickly.”

In addition to Cleco personnel, the company has secured nearly 1,300 distribution line mechanics and vegetation specialists to assist with Marco and Laura.

“Despite these additional resources, customers should prepare for the possibility of longer and multiple power outages given the fact that these are back-to-back storms, and we are operating under COVID guidelines,” said Lass. 

Safety tips to follow before, during and after a storm:

• Have flashlights, a battery-powered radio and extra batteries.
• Make a list of important phone numbers and family contact numbers.
• Make sure cell phones and other devices are fully charged.
• Plan for medical or special needs.
• Operate portable generators outdoors in well-ventilated areas and plug appliances directly into generators with grounded extension cords. Never plug a generator into a wall outlet.
• Assume all downed power lines are live and stay away. Report downed power lines immediately by calling 1-800-622-6537 and 911.
• If water is rising, turn off electricity at the main breaker, evacuate and stay away until waters have completely receded.
   

For additional safety information and how Cleco is preparing, follow the company on Facebook @ClecoPower or visit Cleco’s Storm Center page at cleco.com/storm-center.