CenterPoint Energy activates staging sites and begins onboarding additional emergency response resources as preparations continue ahead of this weekend's approaching winter weather conditions

Core Points - CenterPoint Energy is preparing for severe winter weather in Southeast Texas, with approximately 3,300 electric employees and contract workers pre-staged for storm preparation and restoration efforts [1][8] - The State of Texas has issued a disaster declaration in anticipation of the weather impacts, and CenterPoint is coordinating closely with government officials and emergency agencies [4] - The company has activated its Emergency Operations Center and is deploying over 700 natural gas workers and contractors to support the response [9][15] Preparation and Response - CenterPoint has established three staging sites in the Greater Houston area to pre-position resources for potential restoration efforts [1][10] - The company has enhanced its natural gas infrastructure with hardening measures and has placed Compressed Natural Gas trucks at 13 strategic locations to support the system [7][15] - CenterPoint's winter readiness plan includes monitoring weather forecasts and encouraging customers to stay informed and prepared for cold weather [5][11] Customer Communication and Safety - Customers are urged to have an emergency plan in place and can access storm-related safety tips through CenterPoint's website [12] - The company offers a Power Alert Service for customers to receive updates on winter storm outages and restoration times [11][13] - CenterPoint is conducting outreach to critical care customers and has implemented enhanced communication strategies to keep customers informed [15]