Tulsa is under a winter storm warning from Friday until Sunday afternoon, with a foot of snow possible and below freezing temperatures. Severe frigid weather historically means more energy use and higher probabilities of power outages.
Public Service Company of Oklahoma, Tulsa’s primary energy provider, told The Eagle that while their services hold up well, no structure is completely immune to nature’s forces.
What to do if you experience power outages
In the event of a power outage, notify PSO by calling 1-833-PSO-OUTG (776-6884) or using its mobile app or website.
If you see a downed utility line or trees that have fallen on power lines, stay away and notify PSO.
Do not approach any utility crews or vehicles working in your neighborhood. This could obstruct their work and put your own safety at risk. Crews are strategically stationed throughout the service area and are prepared to mobilize.
If you use a generator, do not operate it indoors.
You can sign up for PSO’s text and email updates, including estimated time of restoration, at psoklahoma.com/alerts.
How to avoid (and react to) frozen pipes
Pipes are also at risk of freezing and could burst during extreme cold.
Tulsa’s water and sewer department handles water mains for residents, but service lines are your responsibility. Officials say you should keep the meter can lid closed to trap warm air because meter reads won’t happen in cold weather.
Other tips include:
- Disconnect garden hoses and install covers on outside faucets.
- Turn on hot and cold indoor faucets, allowing a slow, consistent stream.
- Open cabinet doors below faucets to let warm air in.
What should you do if your pipes freeze? The city recommends taking the following steps.
- Leave faucets and cabinets open to speed up the thawing process.
- Add a heater to the mix. Face it toward the pipes to warm them.
- Never use an open flame to warm your pipes.
- If you have access to hot water, soak towels and wrap them around the pipes.
- Call a plumber if running water doesn’t return in a reasonable amount of time, especially if the pipe is located on an exterior wall.
- Call the after-hours water emergency number at (918) 596-9488 for guidance.
If a pipe bursts, take the following action.
- Turn off the water if your home has an independent/private shut-off valve.
- If not, call the after-hours water emergency at (918) 596-9488.
- Call a plumber and, if you’re living at an apartment complex, call your emergency maintenance line.
For more information, residents can check the city’s Waterline Break Board at www.cityoftulsa.org/breakboard to report unlisted mainline breaks by calling (918) 596-9488.
Ismael Lele is a Report for America corps member and writes about business in Tulsa for The Oklahoma Eagle. Your donation to match our Report for America grant helps keep him writing stories like this one; please consider making a tax-deductible gift of any amount today by visiting this link.
