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AEP Issues Statement/Advise Regarding Christmas Weekend Storm

AEP- “Our meteorologists are monitoring a severe weather event expected to bring widespread strong wind gusts, blowing snow and freezing temperatures across several states, including much of Appalachian Power’s service area. Long-duration, widespread strong wind gusts could cause power outages. We know you depend on us to keep the power on, especially during the extreme cold and when many are celebrating the holidays. In advance of the storm system’s expected arrival, Appalachian Power’s line employees, contractors and tree workers are on alert for the possibility of service restoration work. However, road conditions, lingering wind gusts and extreme wind chills could delay some restoration efforts. We’ll continue to update you as information becomes available. In the meantime, we encourage customers to be prepared should outages occur. Check out the below resources for additional information on how to keep you and your loved ones safe. Before the Storm
 Make a plan in the event a power outage occurs. Check with those who are elderly, have young children or have medical conditions to ensure they have a plan — and don’t forget your pets.
Charge devices such as phones, laptops, portable chargers and other electronics that will help you stay connected.Prepare an emergency kit. At a minimum, include non-perishable food, water, a flashlight, batteries, a battery-powered radio, a first-aid kit and necessary medications.Important Safety RemindersRemember, all downed lines are dangerous — they carry an electric current that can cause serious or even fatal injuries. Stay away to stay alive. If you encounter a fallen wire, keep yourself and others away from it and anything it may be touching, and call 911 and Appalachian Power at 1-800-956-4237 immediately.Never operate lanterns, heaters, fuel-fired stoves or burn charcoal without proper ventilation to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning and fires.If you use a portable or RV generator, do not plug the generator into your circuit box. Learn more about portable generator safety.Additional safety tips are posted at AppalachianPower.com/Safety.
Stay ConnectedMake sure you’re signed up to receive outage alerts and updates:Sign up for Appalachian Power AlertsYou can also track and report outages with the Appalachian Power mobile app.
  
Extremely cold temperatures can cause your energy usage and electric bill to go up. Find helpful tips and information about winter bills on AppalachianPower.com