https://whazuptoday.com/how-to-prepare-for-a-power-outage/

How to Prepare for a Power Outage

Short-term power outages are inconvenient. Storms or energy shortages sometimes make the power go out. In some cases, these outages can also be life-threatening. By preparing for outages in advance, you’ll have a plan to use when the power goes out.

Gather Supplies Before a Blackout Happens

Make a “blackout kit” before the lights go out. Include the following supplies:

Flashlight

Batteries

Portable, battery-powered radio or TV

Water (at least 1 gallon per person, per day)

Non-perishable foods

A whistle to alert rescue workers

Stay Calm and Stay Cool

Here are a few helpful tips on how to reduce the dangers of a power outage:

Only use a flashlight for emergency lighting.

Do not use candles – they are a serious fire hazard.

Turn off all electrical equipment that was on when the power failed.

Avoid opening your refrigerator or freezer to keep contents cold.

Do not run a generator inside your home or garage.

Do not connect a generator to a home’s electrical system.

If you use a generator, connect the equipment you want to power directly to the generator.

Keep a battery-powered or hand-crank radio handy to get the latest news.

Summer Outages Create Special Concerns

In the summer, a power outage can stop air conditioners and fans that move cooler air. Some power outages can also stop water treatment plants, making clean water that’s safe to drink in short supply.

In case of a summer power outage:

Check on family or neighbors who may not be mobile.

Consider evacuating beyond the reach of the blackout.

Drink plenty of water.

Wear light clothing.

If you can, move to areas with generated power (malls, shelters, etc.)

Listen for news updates on a battery-powered or hand-crank radio or TV.

Watch for heat-related illnesses, especially in children, the elderly and disabled.

For more information, see this website’s section on “Extreme Heat” and learn more about blackouts by viewing “Are You Ready?” from FEMA.

Winter Power Outage: Are You Prepared?

Without power, you quickly lose access to many essentials of modern life. Depending on the time of year and the duration, a power outage can mean the difference between life and death. On the other hand, while a summer wind storm can cause a temporary loss of power and be a major inconvenience and loss of food in the freezer; even a short winter outage in Montana is a risk to humans, livestock, pets, and structures. Are you prepared?

Since you never know when and how long you could be without power here are a few tips to prepare for these three essentials:

1. warmth and comfort

2. cooking and water

3. sanitation, hygiene, and health

General

Prepare an emergency kit (batteries, flashlight, foods, waters, bedding, candles, etc.) for at least 72 hours without power – in isolated rural areas, especially during winter months perhaps longer.

Safety Comes First! During the winter if you need emergency heating for your home, to decrease the risk of starting your house on fire, getting injured, and being poisoned from toxic fumes; safety is the primary consideration when choosing and using backup heating and cooling systems.

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