Thankfully, lengthy outages do not happen on a regular basis. However, that does not mean you should not prepare for them. Valley Rural Electric Cooperative and Safe Electricity suggest you take the following steps.
- Have a storm kit ready that includes flashlights, bottled water, non-perishable food, manual can opener, battery-operated radio, batteries, portable cell phone chargers that are fully charged, hand sanitizer, and first-aid supplies.
- Have alternate plans for refrigerating or accessing medicines and using power-dependent medical devices.
- Find out where your local storm shelters are and have a plan for getting there if needed and it is safe to do so.
During a power outage, remember these important tips.
- Call us to report the power outage.
- Keep freezers and refrigerators closed to preserve food.
- Only use generators outdoors and away from windows and doors; do not use them in a garage.
- Do not use a gas stove to heat your home.
- Disconnect appliances and electronics to avoid damage from electrical surges.
- If safe, go to an alternate location for heat or cooling.
- If weather conditions allow, check on neighbors. This is especially important since cell phone and internet communications may be disrupted, and folks may be unable to call for help.
For more information about electrical safety and storm preparation, visit SafeElectricity.org .
Article and images courtesy of SafeElectricity.org.