Power Outage

A power outage may:

• Disrupt communications, water and transportation.
• Close retail businesses, grocery stores, gas stations, ATMs, banks and other services.
• Cause food spoilage and water contamination.
• Prevent use of medical devices.

Power outage tips:

• Keep freezers and refrigerators closed.
• Use a generator, but ONLY outdoors and away from windows.
• Do not use a gas stove or oven to heat your home.
• Disconnect appliances and electronics to avoid damage from electrical surges.
• Have alternate plans for refrigerating medicines or using power-dependent medical devices (check on family, friends and neighbors who depend on oxygen).
• Check with local officials about heating and cooling stations open nearby.

Preparing for the next power outage:

Take an inventory of the items you need that rely on electricity. Plan for batteries (check sizes) and other alternative power sources to meet your needs when the power goes out, such as a portable charger or power bank. Have flashlights for every household member. Determine whether your home phone will work in a power outage and how long battery backup will last.

Other items you may need during the next power outage:

• Flashlights, extra batteries and matches. Keep them where you can find them in the dark.
• Battery-powered radio.
• Battery-powered or wind-up clock.
• Canned or dried non-perishable foods for people and pets, and a manual can opener.
• A safe alternate source of heat and extra fuel (wood, kerosene).
• Extra blankets and warm clothes.
• One gallon of bottled drinking water per person per day.
• A gallon of liquid chlorine bleach for sanitizing utensils and dishes.
• A cell phone with back up power source or regular landline (not cordless) phone.