Entergy Texas Welcomes Fall with Essential Safety Reminders
As the vibrant hues of autumn begin to paint the Texas landscape, Entergy Texas is reminding residents to prioritize safety during this transitional season. While the cooler temperatures invite opportunities for home improvement and outdoor activities, it’s crucial to stay vigilant to avoid accidents and injuries. Here are some practical tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable fall.
Outdoor Safety Tips for Fall Festivities
With Halloween just around the corner, families are gearing up for a season filled with costumes, candy, and community events. The American Academy of Pediatrics emphasizes the importance of safety during this festive time. To prepare your home for trick-or-treaters, ensure that outdoor lights are functioning and that walkways are well-lit and free from tripping hazards.
When using extension cords for decorations, opt for those specifically designed for outdoor use. To prevent water from entering light sockets, consider using rubber gaskets or positioning sockets downward. Remember to turn off outdoor lights and decorations when you’re away from home or sleeping to reduce fire risks. Additionally, parents can help children learn about safety through engaging resources, including videos and interactive activities available online.
Home Project Safety
Fall is an ideal time to tackle home improvement projects and prepare your property for the winter months. However, safety should always come first. When cleaning up fallen leaves or trimming trees, be mindful of overhead power lines. Position your ladder away from these lines to prevent any accidental contact. If you encounter downed wires, assume they are energized and report them immediately by calling 1-800-ENTERGY.
If your fall projects involve digging, remember to call 811 before you start. This simple step can prevent accidents and disruptions to utility services in your neighborhood. When using a ladder, ensure it is on a flat surface, wear appropriate footwear, and have someone nearby to assist you.
Navigating Daylight Saving Time
As Daylight Saving Time ends on November 3, the shift to shorter days means increased caution is necessary, especially for drivers. With less daylight, it becomes more challenging to see children as they travel to and from school. Drivers should remain alert and avoid distractions, particularly in residential areas. The National Association for Pupil Transportation provides additional resources for ensuring the safety of children during this time.
When adjusting your clocks, take the opportunity to check the batteries in your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. Every home should be equipped with a carbon monoxide detector, as this colorless and odorless gas can pose serious health risks.
Indoor Safety Precautions
As the weather cools, many families turn to candles for warmth and ambiance. However, it’s essential to never leave candles burning unattended, as even a small flame can lead to a fire.
Space heaters can also provide comfort during chilly nights, but they come with risks. Always keep space heaters at least three feet away from flammable materials like drapes and furniture. If you rely on a gas or electric furnace, schedule a service appointment with a certified technician to ensure it operates safely and efficiently.
For those with wood-burning stoves or fireplaces, proper maintenance is key. Before lighting your first fire of the season, have your chimney cleaned by a professional to remove any debris that could obstruct airflow and cause smoke to enter your home.
Preparing for Inclement Weather
Although the cooler months are upon us, hurricane season continues until the end of November. It’s vital to remain prepared for severe weather events. Take the time to create a plan and assemble an emergency kit to ensure your family is ready for any situation that may arise.
Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings
Entergy Texas offers a Customer Bill Toolkit designed to help customers manage their energy usage and control their electric bills. This toolkit includes resources for energy efficiency programs and customized payment options, enabling customers to save money year-round. For more information, visit the Bill Toolkit website to explore tools and resources that can assist you in understanding your bill and reducing energy consumption.
About Entergy Texas
Entergy Texas, Inc. serves approximately 512,000 customers across 27 counties. As a subsidiary of Entergy Corporation, a Fortune 500 electric company, Entergy Texas is committed to providing reliable energy while transitioning to cleaner, more efficient solutions. With over a century of community involvement, Entergy is recognized for its sustainability efforts and corporate citizenship, contributing more than $100 million annually to local communities through philanthropy and volunteerism. For the latest updates, visit the Entergy Texas newsroom and connect with them on social media.