Cleco’s service area could be impacted by extremely low temperatures, freezing rain and snow next week, according to early weather forecasts.

“As we get closer to the projected timeframe, we’ll know more, but current forecasts indicate conditions are favorable for a winter storm across parts of the Southeast,” said Clint Robichaux, director of distribution operations and reliability. “Cleco will continue to monitor this winter storm threat and alert customers if it becomes imminent.”

Cleco prepares year-round for all types of weather-related events, and employees and contractors are on standby whenever there’s potential for inclement weather. Out-of-state crews also are brought in if needed.

“Cleco has a storm plan to ensure we’re always ready to respond whether it’s a winter storm, hurricane, tornado or week-day storm,” said Robichaux. “Now is a good time for customers to prepare. Make sure you have a plan for staying warm in the event of a power outage and winterize your homes and businesses to keep the heat in if temperatures drop.”

Tips to prepare for winter weather:

• Gather supplies you might need during a power outage, including flashlight, batteries, canned food, manual can opener, bottled water, medication and a first aid kit.
• Charge cell phones, tablets and laptops.
• Make sure it’s safe to travel. Elevated freeways and bridges are prone to dangerous ice build-up when they get wet during cold temperatures.
• 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.
• If using a space heater, make sure the plug isn’t frayed or torn, as it could start a fire, and keep heaters away from anything that can burn, including paper, clothing and rugs.
• Find and seal leaks.