Be Prepared for Winter Power Outages

Heavy snow and high winds during winter storms can lead to power outages. To keep your family safe and protect your home, there are steps your should take before and after the power goes out.

Preparing for a winter power outage

Check flashlights and portable devices like radios and cell phones to ensure that they are working and fully charged. Have a home emergency kit with food, water and other critical supplies. Keep extra batteries in a safe place or have a solar-powered or hand crank charger available. If a winter storm is coming that may cause a power outage fill your bathtub and spare containers of water. This water can be used to replenish the toilet bowl. Know where the manual release lever of your electric garage door opener is located. Consider installing a standby power generator to provide power during an outage.

What to do during a winter power outage

Let faucets drip a little to relieve pressure and avoid freezing pipes. You can use your car charger to keep your cell phone charged. Never use outdoor cooking appliances or heaters indoors. They can cause carbon monoxide poisoning. Use flashlights or other battery-powered lights if possible, instead of candles. If you do use candles, never leave them burning unattended.