Prepare for a Winter Storm Power Outage

2/10/2020 (Permalink)

A little time spent planning and preparing will help you be comfortable and safe if you lose power during a winter storm.

A severe snow or ice storm can be a life-altering event—especially if you lose power to your home for several days or even longer. You can’t stop Old Man Winter, but you can prepare for a power outage by laying in supplies and planning ahead.

Beyond the important tips listed in this article, it’s a good idea to have a fully-fueled vehicle and extra cash on hand when a storm is imminent.

Food and Water

You may need to feed your family for several days or more. Stay energized and healthy with some preparation.

• Water for three days or more (one gallon per person, per day)
• Food for three days or more (fresh fruits and vegetables, high-energy non-perishable foods)
• Baby formula and food (if needed)
• Pet food (if needed)

Heating and Lighting

Plan ahead to avoid the darkness and cold while you wait for your power to return.

• Flashlights, lanterns, head lamps and extra batteries
• If you have a generator: 24-hour or more supply of gasoline (run the generator outside only)
• Wood fireplaces or wood- burning stoves, coal for coal-burning stoves
• Extra blankets
• Candles
• Fire extinguisher

Electronics

Stretch out the life of your electronics by charging up before a potential outage.

• Fully charged cell phones, tablets, etc.
• Fully charged power bank
• Phone chargers to use in your car
• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
• Extra batteries

Medical and Personal Hygiene

Having a family medical kit and extra prescription meds on hand can make a big difference in a protracted outage.

• Necessary medications (at least a seven-day supply)
• First aid kit
• Other necessary medical items (hearing aids with extra batteries, glasses, contact lenses, etc.)
• Sanitation and personal hygiene items
• Baby diapers and wipes, if needed

Important Information

Take a few minutes ahead of time to locate and set aside essential papers in a safe place.

• Family and emergency contact information
• Copies of personal documents, such as passports and Social Security cards
• Medical information and medical insurance card
• Phone numbers of your insurance company and agent

Tools for Snow and Ice Removal

While you’re waiting for the power to return, you’ll also need to dig out of the storm.

• Shovels, ice choppers, roof rake and other tools
• Sand, rock salt or non-clumping kitty litter for icy walkways and steps
• Fully fueled snow blower

Source: The Hanover Insurance Group

If you have suffered damage from a storm or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785

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If you have suffered damage from a storm or other disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield at 860-216-2785