Advice from Allison Bright, CEO of the Utilities Board of the City of Cullman
CULLMAN, Ala. – During winter weather, the possibility of power outages becomes a concern for many residents. Allison Bright, CEO of the Utilities Board of the City of Cullman, shares insights on how the utility handles these situations and offers valuable tips for Cullman Power Board customers to stay safe and prepared.
For homes relying on electric heat, being prepared for an outage is crucial. Bright advised residents to take several steps.
“It’s essential to be prepared for winter weather conditions, especially if your home relies on electric heat,” she said. “We recommend keeping extra blankets, sleeping bags and warm clothing on hand to maintain body heat during an outage. If you have a fireplace or wood-burning stove, ensure it’s in working condition, and stock up on firewood.”
She also suggested, “Battery-powered space heaters designed for emergencies can be useful, but always follow safety guidelines when using them. Additionally, having a fully stocked emergency kit with non-perishable food, water, flashlights, batteries and a battery-powered radio is critical for staying safe and informed.”
For individuals using medical devices that require constant power, Bright emphasized the importance of proactive planning.
“For those with medical devices requiring power, planning ahead is crucial,” Bright said. “If you or a loved one uses such a device, we recommend investing in a portable generator or battery backup system. Ensure it is fully charged and tested before a storm.”
Bright continued, “Identify nearby shelters or facilities with backup power where you can relocate if needed. To stay up to date on local warming shelters, follow Cullman County Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD) on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CullmanCountyVOAD.”
She added, “Keep a supply of portable charging devices for smaller equipment and ensure all batteries are charged prior to the event.”
With predictions of snow and ice, Bright encouraged residents to take steps to better insulate their homes.
“Preparing your home for winter weather can make a big difference in keeping it warm and conserving energy,” she advised. “Use weather stripping or draft guards to seal gaps around windows and doors to prevent cold air from entering. Hang heavy curtains or blankets over windows to provide extra insulation.”
Bright also recommended, “Place rolled towels or rugs at the base of doors to block drafts, and close off unused rooms to concentrate heat in the living areas. Use area rugs on floors for additional insulation. These small steps can help maintain a warmer environment even if the power is out.”
When a major outage occurs, Bright said, Cullman Utilities has a plan to ensure power is restored efficiently and safely.
“When a major outage happens, our team is fully mobilized to restore power as quickly and safely as conditions allow,” she explained. “Restoration efforts typically begin with assessing the situation. We follow established plans designed to get the most customers back online as efficiently as possible, while always keeping safety at the forefront.”
She added, “Customers can assist by reporting outages by calling us at 256-734-2343 and texting us at 877-92-POWER (877-927-6937). Staying informed through our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/cullmanpowerboard for updates and safety information is also very helpful.”
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