PVREA preparing for major storm

Weather stations are predicting a large snowstorm in the Northern Colorado and Denver Metro area. In the case of a severe winter storm and potential power outages, PVREA line crews, contractors and staff are on standby; trucks and equipment are prepared and ready for any outage calls.

Members should also be prepared for the snowstorm and possible power outages. To prepare for a winter storm, assemble a kit of essentials, like water, battery-operated flashlights and battery-powered radios. Keep a list of emergency phone numbers that includes PVREA. Be prepared for the possibility of a prolonged outage due to power line and electric equipment damage. Fully charge your cell phone.

During an outage:
• Report your outage by calling PVREA at 1-800-432-1012 or reporting through SmartHub.
• Stay inside, and dress warm. Staying warm is a priority. Dress in several layers of loose fitting, lightweight warm clothing. Wear hats, mittens and scarves.
• If you plan to use a generator, know how to operate it safely
• Close off unneeded rooms to keep the heat in your living areas. Stuff towels under the doors
• Keep your refrigerator and freezer closed as much as possible to keep your food cold. If power is out longer than 4 hours, keep perishable items in a cooler with ice. Make ice outside. A full freezer can remain cold enough for 48 hours, and half a freezer full 24 hours.
• When using an alternative heat source, follow operating instructions, use fire safeguards, and be sure to properly ventilate. Always keep a multipurpose, dry-chemical fire extinguisher nearby, and know how to use it.
• Place draft block at the bottom of doors to minimize cold drafts from entering the house.
• Keep a close eye on the temperature in your home. Infants and people over the age of 65 are often more susceptible to the cold. You may want to stay with friends or relatives or go to a shelter if you cannot keep your home warm.
• Unplug all appliances and electronics so they won’t get damaged with power restoration.
• If power lines are on the ground, stay far away from them and warn others to stay away. Contact PVREA and let us know because the lines could still be live.
• Any power line that is dead could become energized at any moment due to power restoration or backup generators.
• Check on any elderly neighbors and make sure they are safe.

In the case of a large outage situation, PVREA will update members through our automated phone system, on our website at pvrea.com, Facebook, Twitter and local media outlets. Please call PVREA with any outage reports at 1-800-432-1012 and stay safe.