Preparing for Winter Storms

Winter storms can bring heavy snow, ice, strong winds, and extreme cold—conditions that can affect travel, daily routines, and electric service. While URECC crews prepare year-round for severe weather, the best defense against winter storms is preparation at home.

Taking a few steps before the weather hits can help keep you and your family safe and informed.

Before the Storm: Prepare Early

Stay informed

• Monitor local weather forecasts and emergency alerts.
• Follow URECC on social media or check the URECC website for updates.
• Report outages or downed lines through the proper channels such as:
  -The SmartHub App
  -The SmartHub Web Portal
  -Or by calling 903-680-2100

Build an emergency supply kit
Have these items ready in case travel is limited or power is interrupted:

• Flashlights and extra batteries
• Cell phones and backup chargers or battery packs
• Non-perishable food and bottled water
• Prescription medications and medical supplies
• Warm blankets, coats, gloves, and hats
• A battery-powered or hand-crank radio

Plan for potential power outages

• Identify a safe backup heat source if you have one.
• Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible to preserve food.
• Members who rely on electricity for medical equipment should have a backup plan in place and notify URECC if needed.

Protect your home

• Insulate exposed water pipes to help prevent freezing.
• Trim tree limbs near your home that could break under snow or ice.
• If you own a generator, ensure it’s in good working condition and never operate it indoors or near windows.

During the Storm: Stay Safe

Limit travel
Snow and ice can make roads dangerous. If travel is unavoidable, keep an emergency kit in your vehicle and let someone know your route and expected return time.

Use heating sources safely

• Never use ovens, grills, or propane heaters to heat your home.
• Keep space heaters at least three feet away from flammable materials and never leave them unattended.

Watch for electrical hazards

• Stay far away from downed power lines and always assume they are energized.
• Report outages or downed lines through the proper channels such as:
  -The SmartHub App
  -The SmartHub Web Portal
  -Or by calling 903-680-2100
  
• Keep children and pets away from damaged electrical equipment.

After the Storm: Take Caution

Check your surroundings

• Look for fallen trees, icy branches, or damaged power lines.
• Avoid standing water near electrical equipment.

Report outages or damage
If your power is out or you notice damage to URECC equipment, report it as soon as possible using SmartHub or by phone. Accurate outage reports help crews respond quickly and restore power safely.

Be patient during restoration
Winter storms can cause widespread damage and hazardous working conditions. URECC crews work around the clock, prioritizing repairs that restore service safely to members as quickly as possible.

Preparing Together Makes a Difference

Winter storms are unpredictable, but preparation can reduce their impact. By staying informed and planning ahead, URECC members help protect their families, homes, and communities.

URECC is committed to keeping members informed and restoring power safely—because when winter weather strikes, preparation makes all the difference.