How to Prepare for a Winter Storm and What to Do If the Power Goes Out
Ice on Tree

How to Prepare for a Winter Storm and What to Do If the Power Goes Out

Winter storms can bring dangerous conditions, including freezing temperatures, icy roads, and power outages. At Cullman Electric Cooperative, our crews prepare in advance and stand ready to respond to storm-related outages as safely and quickly as possible. While we prepare on our end, there are important steps you can take to protect your home, your family, and yourself before, during, and after a winter storm.

Below are some practical tips to help you stay safe and prepared.

Before the Storm: Prepare Now

Stock Up on Essentials
Before winter weather arrives, make sure your household is well prepared in case travel becomes difficult or power is lost. Recommended items include:

  • Water (one gallon per person per day for several days)
  • A three-day supply of non-perishable food
  • Flashlights
  • Extra batteries and wireless phone chargers
  • First aid kit and necessary prescriptions
  • Manual can opener
  • Extra blankets and warm clothing
  • Moist towelettes
  • Extra pet food and supplies, if applicable

Protect Your Pipes
Extended freezing temperatures can cause pipes to freeze or burst. To reduce the risk:

  • Keep garage doors closed if water lines are located there
  • Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate around plumbing
  • Let cold water drip slowly from faucets served by exposed pipes

It’s also a good idea to locate your main water shutoff valve before the storm. If a pipe bursts, knowing how to quickly shut off your water can help prevent major damage. You may need a water shutoff wrench, so consider keeping one handy.

During the Storm: Stay Safe and Conserve Energy

Limit Travel
If roads are icy or snow-covered, avoid driving unless it’s absolutely necessary or a life-threatening situation. Even after snowfall stops, road conditions may remain dangerous.

Conserve Energy
During periods of extreme cold, high energy demand can strain the electric grid. Members may be asked to conserve energy by:

  • Setting thermostats no higher than 68 degrees
  • Avoiding the use of large appliances during peak times

These small steps can make a big difference and help prevent larger outages.

If Your Power Goes Out- Please report it! 

Preserve Heat Indoors

  • Keep exterior doors closed as much as possible
  • Close blinds and curtains to help retain heat
  • At night, consider covering windows with lightweight blankets to block cold air

Protect Food Supplies
If your power is out for multiple days and outdoor temperatures remain below freezing, you can safely preserve refrigerated or frozen food by moving it to an unheated garage or porch. You can learn more about food safety guidlines here. 

Always Stay Away from Downed Power Lines
Never assume a downed line is safe. Always treat it as energized:

After the Storm: Take Precautions

Watch for Black Ice
Even after the storm ends, roads may remain slick. Drive slowly, be alert, and watch for black ice—especially on bridges and shaded areas.

Document Damage
If your home experiences storm damage, take photos and document everything before beginning cleanup. This documentation is important for insurance claims.

Clear Snow Carefully
When shoveling snow, please do not pile snow on or around pad-mounted transformers. Our crews may need clear access to restore power safely and efficiently.

We’re Here for You

Winter storms can be stressful, but preparation makes a big difference. Cullman Electric Cooperative crews are ready to respond when severe weather impacts our area, and we appreciate our members working with us to stay safe and conserve energy when needed.

For outage updates, safety information, and restoration progress, continue to follow us on social media and check our website. Stay warm, stay safe, and thank you for being a Cullman Electric Cooperative member.

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