Issue #227, December 2023

Help Prepare for Winter Storm Season

As winter approaches, so do the challenges of severe weather conditions that can lead to power outages.

Winter storms can bring heavy snow, freezing rain, and strong winds that may disrupt our electrical distribution system.

If you lose power, report it by calling us at (503) 397-1844. Find additional tips on our website.

Happy Holidays from Your PUD

The staff and Board Members at Columbia River PUD wish you a merry Christmas and a happy New Year!

Our office will be closed on Monday, December 25, for Christmas, and on Monday, January 1, for New Year's Day.

We will have crews on standby throughout the holiday season. If your power goes out, please call us at (503) 397-1844 to report the outage.

Stay Away from Downed Power Lines

Always stay away from downed power lines. If you see a fallen power line, call us immediately at (503) 397-1844. If it is a medical or life-threatening emergency, call 9-1-1.

Always assume a downed power line is energized. Do not touch or approach a downed line, or anything that may be touching a downed line, including branches or trees.

Stay safe around downed lines.

Give the Gift of Light and Warmth this Season

You can help families in need during the cold weather this winter by donating to our GLOW Fund. GLOW provides emergency bill payment assistance to income-qualified families.

There are multiple ways you can donate:

• Round up on your bill.
• Make a recurring donation of a set amount.
• Make a one-time donation.

Visit our website or call us at (503) 397-0590 to learn more.

Heat Pump Water Heaters Can Lower Your Bill

Electric water heaters typically account for about 20% of the energy used by an average home.

Heat pump water heaters can lower that amount. They are at least twice as efficient as standard water heaters.

If you are considering converting to a heat pump water heater, we may have rebates available for you.

3 Free Ways to Cut Heating Waste

1. Clean your air filter.
2. Open blinds and shades on sun-facing windows to let the sun's heat warm your home.
3. Keep decorations, furniture, and other items from blocking your heat registers.

See more suggestions on our website.

Donate Blood at Columbia River PUD

Sign up to help save a life!

We are hosting an American Red Cross blood drive on Monday, December 11, from 1-6 p.m. in our Community Room.

You can reserve a spot online.

Office Closure Notice

Our office will be closed from 8:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. on Thursday, December 14, for an all employee training.