Shedding Some Light on Power Outage To-Do's

In high winds, wintry mixes and even hard driving rain, power outages can occur suddenly, without warning and can create a risk for all kinds of safety hazards from stubbed toes to spoiled food. Please read up on how you can prepare your family in the event of a power outage.

Let's prepare now to keep from worrying later.

Before An Outage:

• Check flashlights and battery-powered portable radios to ensure that they are working, and you have extra batteries. A radio is an important source of weather and emergency information during a storm. Don't have one? We do! Call 828-258-3888 ext. 212 to order one!
• Make sure your home is properly insulated. Caulk and weather-strip doors and windows to keep cold air out.
• Install storm windows or cover windows with plastic from the inside to provide insulation.
• Know how to shut off water valves.
• If your water supply could be affected (a well-water pump system), stock your home with a 2 week suppy of water. (One gallon/per day for each person in the household - and save some for pets too!)
• Stock home with batteries, non perishable food (2 week supply), sanitation/personal hygiene items and an extra stash of cash.

During an Outage:

• Dress for the season, wearing several layers of loose fitting, lightweight, warm clothing, rather than one layer of heavy clothing. The outer garments should be tightly woven and water repellent.
• Wear a hat; most body heat is lost through the top of the head.
• Cover your mouth with a scarf to protect your lungs.
• In order to protect against possible voltage irregularities that can occur when power is restored, you should unplug all sensitive electronic equipment, including TVs, stereo, VCR, microwave oven, computer, cordless telephone, answering machine and garage door opener.
• Do not open the refrigerator or freezer door. Read our Food Safety Checklist

After an Outage:

• Be extra cautious if you go outside to inspect for damage after a storm. Downed or hanging electrical wires can be hidden by snowdrifts, trees or debris, and could be live. Never attempt to touch or moved downed lines. Keep children and pets away from them.
• Check with/help neighbors.
• Continue to stay off streets.
• Do not touch anything power lines are touching, such as tree branches or fences. Always assume a downed line is a live line. Call your utility company to report any outage-related problem.