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]

Core Viewpoint - New Jersey American Water emphasizes the importance of preparing plumbing for early cold weather to prevent costly repairs and manage water bills during the holiday season [1][2]. Group 1: Preparation Tips - Customers are advised to take simple steps to avoid frozen pipes, such as insulating exposed pipes, draining irrigation systems, and letting a small trickle of water run overnight [4]. - The company suggests setting the thermostat to 55 degrees and opening cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air circulation [4]. - A freeze alarm is recommended to alert homeowners if the temperature drops below 45 degrees [4]. Group 2: Customer Assistance Programs - New Jersey American Water offers assistance programs like the H2O Help to Others Program and flexible payment options to support customers during winter [3]. - These resources aim to alleviate financial stress as seasonal expenses increase [3]. Group 3: Water Conservation - New Jersey is currently under a drought watch, indicating significantly below-average rainfall, making water conservation critical [3]. - Customers can monitor their water usage and find conservation tips through their MyWater account and the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection's website [3]. Group 4: Company Overview - New Jersey American Water is the largest regulated water utility in the state, serving approximately 2.9 million people with safe, clean, reliable, and affordable water and wastewater services [4].