Winter can be a beautiful time of the year with white snow and sparkling ice, but that same winter weather can also wreak havoc on communities. It can cause roads to be treacherous, schools to be closed, and sometimes your power to go out. Making plans now for a potential power outage can make riding out a prolonged power outage safer and more comfortable.
A good way to help keep your family safe and comfortable during a winter storm is to put an emergency kit together. Safe Electricity offers the following list of items to help you prepare your kit:
- Water – stock up on bottled water for consumption
- Food – have at least enough for 3 to 7 days that includes non-perishable packaged or canned foods, juices, foods for infants or the elderly, and snack foods
- Utensils – include a non-electric can opener, cooking tools, paper plates, and plastic utensils
- Blankets, pillows, and warm clothing items
- First aid kit, medicine, and prescription drugs
- Toiletries, hygiene items, moist towelettes
- Flashlight and batteries – be sure to include extra batteries
- Radio and clock – use battery-operated radios and clocks; also consider purchasing a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) weather radio
- Telephone – keep cell phone chargers (wall, car, and/or solar) on hand and, if you have a landline, a traditional (not cordless) telephone set
- Emergency numbers – keep a list of emergency telephone numbers, including the local utility company
- Cash and credit cards
- Important documents
- Tools – keep a set in your kit; can include duct tape, screw drivers, pliers, wrench, work gloves, safety goggles, etc.
- Toys, books, and games
- Pet-care items
- Supplies for any alternate heating methods your home may have, such as a fireplace or wood-burning stove
For more information on how to prepare for a winter storm and how to keep your family safe during and after a winter storm, visit SafeElectricity.org.
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