Though there were minimum damages and power outages in Newton County early Wednesday morning, as the winter storm continues officials said people should be prepared for possible power outages and if possible, stay indoors.

Brian Green, a spokesman with Georgia Power said there were less than five power outages in Newton County early Wednesday and a Snapping Shoals EMC spokesperson reported no power outages in the county.

However, Green said as the storm continues power outages could potentially get worse. He recommended that customers keep safety first if a power outage happens. He offered the following tips:

- If you see a power line down, don’t try to approach it or pick it up. Call your power provider and local law officials to report the outage.

- There may well be more power outages. Just in case there are, charge your cell phones, laptops and other electronics you may need.

- If you experience a power outage, avoid opening and closing your refrigerator frequently. Food in the freezer can last 36 to 48 hours if the door remains closed.

Investigator Jeff Alexander with the Newton County Sheriff’s Office said early Wednesday that there were no major damages or accidents caused by the winter storm thus far. He credited that to people staying inside their homes, which he said was best.

“Just stay home and stay inside,” he said. “We know all the kids may want go out and play, but with there being ice on the tree limbs, that’s where the injuries come from. We hope people will use common sense.”