Jonesboro, AR – (JonesboroRightNow.com) – Feb. 18, 2025 – With subfreezing temperatures quickly approaching, local electric companies are encouraging members to take precautions to stay warm and safe.

According to a post on the Craighead Electric Cooperative Facebook page, the Cooperative is closely monitoring the forecasted snowstorm expected to impact the area on Tuesday and Wednesday, noting that its lobbies will be closed Wednesday, Feb. 19, but its drive-thrus will remain open. It will be available by phone at 1-800-794-5012.

“We encourage all members to prioritize safety and preparedness during this winter storm,” it said.

The Cooperative provided the following safety tips:

  • Avoid downed power lines: Assume all downed lines are live and report them immediately to 888-771-7772. Include detailed location information, such as addresses or nearby cross streets.
  • Limit travel: Stay off the roads unless necessary, as hazardous conditions may make travel dangerous.
  • Use generators safely: Ensure proper ventilation to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning when using generators or space heaters.

Entergy Arkansas also gave several tips to help its customers in a press release on Tuesday.

It provided some indoor safety tips. These included having heart sources, such as extra blankets, a fireplace or portable space heaters with automatic shut-off switches. Portable space heaters should be kept away from flammable materials, such as curtains or blankets.

Generators should be operated outdoors and at least 20 feet away from any windows, doors or vents. Rain and snow shouldn’t be able to reach the machine. Homeowners shouldn’t use the generator if it’s wet and gasoline shouldn’t be stored indoors where it can ignite.

If outside, people should avoid downed power lines and equipment, which may be downed from heavy ice or falling branches. Call 1-800-ENTERGY to report downed lines or equipment.

If crews are working, people should keep their distance, as work sites can have many hidden dangers and distracting workers can cause accidents to happen.

Homeowners should also keep snow and ice clear from ventilation pipes for direct-vent furnaces and water heaters, electric heat pump units, dyer vents and outdoor meters.

Additionally, if or when going outdoors, layer up. The innermost layer should be made of wool, silk or polypropylene, as these materials hold more heat and don’t absorb moisture. An insulation layer to trap heat should go on next, with natural fibers like wool, goose down or fleece working the best. The outer layer should be tightly woven and be water and wind resistance to reduce loss of body heat.

The press release also provided signs of winter-related illness, such as frostbite and hypothermia. It added that people shouldn’t ignore shivering. It’s the first sign your body is losing heat and is a sign you should go inside.

Hypothermia is abnormally low body caused by exposure to dangerously cold temperatures. In adults, warning signs include shivering, exhaustion, confusion, fumbling hands, memory loss, slurred speech and drowsiness. In babies, signs include bright red, cold skin and low energy.

If you notice these signs in someone, take their temperature. If it is below 95° F, the person should get medical attention immediately.

Frostbite is an injury caused by freezing and most commonly affects the noise, ears, cheeks, chin, fingers and toes. Signs include numbness, white or gray-ish yellow skin, and unusually waxy or firm skin in the affected area. Frostbite can cause permanent damage to the body and led to amputation in extreme cases. Seek medical attention if you notice frostbite signs.

To stay informed or for more information, visit myEntergy.com to receive the most up-to-date information during weather events.