Be Prepared

There are many causes of power outages both large and small. You should always be prepared for any kind of outage. The suggestions below can help you be ready to keep safe in case of an outage in your area.

Make sure to set aside items and designate for emergency use only. These items should include:

• Radio (Batter Powered)
• Extra batteries
• Blankets
• First-aid kit
• Water
• Lantern
• Candles and matches
• Nonperishable packaged or canned food and a manual can opener
• Keep a list of emergency numbers near the telephone.

If you lose power:

• Check the fuse box to see if a fuse is blown or tripped
• Call your local electric cooperative and let them know that you have no power. Be sure to advise them if you have any emergency medical equipment in your home
• Turn off most appliances as well as unplug most lights to prevent an overload once power is restored
• Keep refrigerator door closed as much as possible. Move perishables such as meat, cheese, milk, etc. to the freezer section of the refrigerator. You may also purchase dry ice or place packages close together to form an igloo so they can keep each other cold. Cover the refrigerator with a blanket
• Make sure you have access to a telephone that does not require that you have electricity to operate.