Cooler days ahead: stay prepared and protected this fall

THE WOODLANDS, TX -- As cooler weather moves into Southeast Texas and communities prepare for football games, pumpkin patches and the holidays, Entergy Texas is reminding customers to stay safe this season. From home projects to festive decorating, a little extra caution can go a long way in keeping everyone safe and ready to enjoy the months ahead.

Outdoor safety: Celebrations, yard work and trick-or-treating

• Prep walkways and lighting: with Halloween and other fall festivities approaching, ensure sidewalks, driveways, paths and steps are clear of leaves, debris and trip hazards. Use properly rated outdoor extension cords and always turn off exterior lights or decorations when you’re away or asleep.

• Costume and visibility safety: guide children to wear costumes with light-reflective materials or safe LED options. Parents and guardians should accompany younger trick-or-treaters and carry flashlights.

• Tree trimming and ladder safety: always assume overhead wires are energized. When trimming, place ladders away from power lines. Never attempt to move fallen wires — call 1-800-ENTERGY immediately. Read more about how we manage vegetation. Remember to use sturdy ladders on level ground and wear slip-resistant, stable footwear. Have someone nearby to assist or stabilize the ladder.

• Dig safely: planning to plant bulbs, shrubs, or other landscaping? Call 811 before you dig to prevent accidental damage to underground utility lines or service interruptions.

November brings shorter days and cozy family gatherings. A few precautions can ensure everyone stays safe.

This year, daylight saving time will end on Sunday, Nov. 2 at 2 a.m. The CDC offers these tips to help you adjust:

• It may take one week for the body to adjust, so reduce demanding physical and mental tasks as much as possible.

• Be vigilant while driving. You and others around you may be drowsy and less alert than usual. Shorter days mean fewer daylight hours and less visibility on the roads.

• A reminder from the National Safety Council: When you change your clocks, it’s also a great time to check the batteries in your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.

Weather preparedness and energy savings

• Don’t let guard down on storms: while temperatures cool, severe weather or strong storms can still occur. Have an emergency plan and kit ready — include flashlights, batteries, water, nonperishable food, and a battery-powered radio.

• Entergy Solutions helps customers save energy and lower their monthly bills through no-cost energy assessments, rebates, and incentives on energy-efficient upgrades. The program offers resources for homes, businesses, and schools such as installing LED lighting, improving insulation, and upgrading heating and cooling systems, all designed to reduce energy use and make communities more sustainable. Visit Entergy Solutions can help you save money – Entergy Texas to learn more.

• Manage energy use wisely: Entergy’s Bill Toolkit remains available to help customers monitor and manage electric usage, compare energy-saving options, and explore financial assistance or payment plans.