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LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – As Arkansas transitions into the colorful and cooler days of fall, Entergy Arkansas is reminding customers to stay vigilant about safety. Whether tackling yard tasks, decorating, or preparing heating systems, these seasonal activities can pose hazards if not handled carefully. Here are some safety tips to help prevent accidents and contribute to a safe, comfortable fall season.
Outdoor safety: Celebrations, yard work & trick-or-treating
- Prep walkways & 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 & 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 & 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.
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 — Dig With Caution — before you dig to prevent accidental damage to underground utility lines or service interruptions.
Indoor and home safety
- Adjust clocks — and batteries
With the end of Daylight Saving Time, fewer daylight hours will impact visibility during commutes. When you “fall back,” also check and replace batteries in smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. - Heating system maintenance
Before turning on furnaces or HVAC systems, schedule inspections by certified professionals. Replace dirty filters and clear debris from outdoor units so systems operate efficiently and safely. - Safe use of space heaters, candles & fireplaces
Space heaters should stay at least three feet away from flammable objects (rugs, curtains, furniture). Never leave candles unattended, and always extinguish them before leaving a room. If you use a fireplace or wood stove, have chimneys cleaned and inspected before use. Accumulated leaves, nests or debris can block ventilation and lead to dangerous smoke backflow into your home.
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 entergyarkansas.com/energyefficiency to learn more.
Weather Preparedness & 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. - 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.
