SHREVEPORT, La., Jan. 7, 2011 – As winter weather approaches the Ark-La-Tex this weekend, Southwestern Electric Power Company (SWEPCO) encourages customers to be prepared should power outages occur.

“Snow, especially wet heavy snow, can cause problems for the electric system because its weight brings down trees and power lines, and snow-covered or closed roads slow our ability to get to the damaged poles, transformers and wires,” said Malcolm Smoak, SWEPCO vice president – distribution. “In addition, with continuing low temperatures, the snow can be a problem for several days.”

SWEPCO customers are encouraged to be prepared for the possibility of power outages with blankets, flashlights, portable radios and TVs, a supply of fresh batteries, water for drinking and cooking; instructions for manually opening power-operated garage doors; and a manual can opener. Keep cell phones charged and ready.  Be sure to have an adequate supply of any medications and medical supplies, plus any supplies needed for babies and pets. Keep a list of family and emergency contacts. Stay tuned to local news media for weather updates and any other emergency information.

“We are closely monitoring the weather; placing our personnel on standby; checking supplies; and preparing to mobilize the resources needed to restore power if outages occur,” Smoak said.

Customers can report power outages 24 hours a day at 1-888-218-3919 or online at www.swepco.com

If an outage occurs remember these safety tips:

Treat all downed lines as if they are carrying electricity. Stay away, and keep others away, especially children and pets. Don’t touch anything in contact with the line, such as trees or fences. Call SWEPCO immediately to report downed lines.

Be extremely careful using any alternate sources for heating, cooling, cooking or lighting. If you use a portable or RV generator, do not plug the generator into your home’s main electrical panel. This can “back-feed” electricity into outside utility lines, creating the danger of electrocution for repair crews and the public. Instead, plug essential appliances directly into the generator.

Southwestern Electric Power Company serves 504,000 customers in three states, including 114,000 in western Arkansas, 210,000 in Northwest Louisiana and 180,000 in East Texas and the Texas Panhandle. SWEPCO’s headquarters are in Shreveport, La. For more information, visit www.swepco.com.