Dear Reader, Extreme weather, high power demand, animal damage — there are many reasons why we may lose power. If the power goes out in your area, are you prepared to get through a day or two with no electricity without risking your health and safety?
Plan ahead with these steps: - Stock the basics — Keep a cushion of nonperishable food in your pantry that doesn’t require cooking. Options include canned goods, nuts, peanut butter and dried fruit. Keep a few gallon jugs of water in storage. Have battery powered LED flashlights available with fresh batteries on hand.
- Keep the fridge closed — Left shut, it will keep cool for about four hours without power. A full freezer will maintain its temperature for around 48 hours (24 hours if half-full) if the door remains closed. If you have temperature sensitive medications, note the total power outage time and if the medication has previously been used or is unopened. Then contact your pharmacist to determine if the drug needs to be replaced.
- Guard against carbon monoxide — Never heat your home with your oven or run a generator, grill or other outdoor device inside your home. Have at least one working carbon monoxide detector, and test its batteries twice a year.
- Have a plan for electricity dependent medical devices — The Food and Drug Administration has a booklet designed for people to record relevant information about their devices, so they’re prepared in case of a power outage. View and print the booklet at www.fda.gov/media/80782/download.
- Know your community — Stay aware of community safe spots to go to for heat, air-conditioning, food and lodging. Keep a paper contact list of people and places you can turn to for help; having your contacts on your phone will only help you as long as your phone stays charged.
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