Press Release

Prepare Now for Winter Storms – PUC Shares #UtilitySafety Tips

Published on 1/3/2025

Filed under: Electric Gas Telecommunications

Snow, Ice, High Winds, and Bitter Cold Expected Across Pennsylvania – Residents Encouraged to Stay Safe and Prepared

HARRISBURG – With Pennsylvania bracing for the first significant winter storm of 2025 – bringing a mix of snow, ice, high winds, and unseasonably cold temperatures – the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) reminds residents to prepare for potential storm-related power outages and take steps to stay safe during severe weather.

The PUC also urges caution when traveling near utility crews working to restore service. Give crews plenty of room to work safely and slow down in work areas to protect both workers and the public.

“Winter storms can be challenging, but a little preparation goes a long way,” said PUC Chairman Stephen M. DeFrank. “Planning ahead helps protect your family and your home, and it supports the hardworking crews and first responders working to keep us safe and restore utility service during harsh conditions.”

Winter #UtilitySafety Tips

The PUC offers these important tips for staying safe and prepared:

1. Plan Ahead: Have flashlights, batteries, bottled water, non-perishable food, and any necessary medications ready.
   
   
2. Charge Up: Fully charge cell phones and other electronic devices in advance.
   
   
3. Stay Informed: Monitor weather forecasts and utility updates through social media and your local news outlets.
   
   
4. Report Issues: Report outages or downed power lines directly to your utility company. Avoid approaching or touching any downed lines.
   
   
5. Be Safe with Generators: Use generators only outdoors, away from windows and doors, and never in enclosed spaces to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.

What Utilities Are Doing

Utilities across the state are already activating their storm response plans, which include:

• Pre-positioning crews and equipment to respond quickly to outages.
  
  
• Enhancing communication with emergency management teams.
  
  
• Coordinating closely with the PUC, the Governor’s Office, and other state agencies.

During storm emergencies, the PUC monitors utility operations closely to ensure a swift and coordinated response to restore service.

For additional resources and updates, visit the PUC website or follow the Commission on social media.

About the PUC

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission balances the needs of consumers and utilities; ensures safe and reliable utility service at reasonable rates; protects the public interest; educates consumers to make independent and informed utility choices; furthers economic development; and fosters new technologies and competitive markets in an environmentally sound manner.

Visit the PUC’s website at puc.pa.gov for recent news releases and video of select proceedings. You can also follow us on X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram and YouTube. Search for the “Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission” or “PA PUC” on your favorite social media channel for updates on utility issues and other helpful consumer information.

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Contact:

• Nils Hagen-Frederiksen
  Press Secretary
  717-418-2701
  nhagen-fre@pa.gov