Power Outage Safety Tips*

BE PREPARED!

• At home or at work, keep a battery-operated radio and flashlight on hand, as well as a supply of batteries.
• Keep an emergency supply of water, medications, and non- perishable foods handy. If you use medication that requires refrigeration, most can be kept in a closed refrigerator for several hours without a problem-check with your physician or pharmacist.
  
• If you have space in your refrigerator or freezer, consider filling plastic containers with water, leaving an inch of space inside each one -this will help keep food cold if the power goes out.
  
• Have a list of emergency numbers readily available. Keep your vehicle gas tank at least half-full.
  
• Plan to have an alternative-cooking source, such as a camp stove or outdoor grill.
• Follow appropriate safety rules for its use outside the residence.
  
• Consider buying a generator and follow the rules for using it outside the residence.
• Before installing a generator, be sure to properly disconnect from your utility electrical service. If possible, have your generator installed by a qualified electrician.
  
• Have extra blankets, coats, hats, and gloves on hand to keep warm.
  
• If you have a computer, back up files and operating systems regularly. Turn off all computers, monitors, and other devices when they are not being used.
  
• If you have an electric garage door opener, locate the manual release level and learn how to operate.
  
• If you have a telephone instrument or system that requires electricity to work, plan for alternate communication such as a standard telephone handset, cellular telephone, or radio.

DURING AN OUTAGE

• Listen to local broadcasts for official information.
  
• Turn off major appliances to prevent damage from a possible surge when the power comes back on - keep one light turned on, so you know when power returns.
• Call your utility provider to notify them of the outage.
  
• Check to see if your neighbors have power.
  
• Check on people with special needs.
  
• Use only flashlights for emergency lighting – candles pose the risk of fire
  
• Keep your refrigerator and freezer doors shut to keep food from spoiling.
• When in doubt, throw it out!
  
• Do not use a charcoal grill indoors and do not use a gas stove for heat - they could give off harmful levels of carbon monoxide.
  
• In cold weather, stay warm by dressing in layers and minimizing time spent outdoors. Be aware of cold stress symptoms (i.e., hypothermia) and seek proper medical attention if symptoms appear.
  
• In hot weather, take steps to remain cool. Move to the lowest level of the house. Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing. Drink plenty of water.
  
• If you are in a tall building, take the stairs and move to the lowest level of the building.
  
• If trapped in an elevator, wait for assistance. Do not attempt to force the doors open. Remain patient -there is plenty of air and the interior of the elevator is designed for passenger safety.
  
• Remember to provide fresh, cool water for your pets.
  
• Eliminate unnecessary travel, especially by car.
  
• Traffic signals will stop working during an outage, creating traffic congestion and dangerous driving conditions. It you must drive during a blackout, remember to obey the 4-Way Stop rule at intersections with non-functioning traffic signals.
  
• Remember that equipment such as automated teller machines (ATMS) and elevators may not be working.
  
• Call your local emergency response number for help, if needed.

PEOPLE WITH SPECIAL NEEDS

• If someone you know is elderly or dependent on life-sustaining or health-related equipment (i.e., ventilators, respirators, oxygen concentrators, or enhancers), help plan to make sure their needs are met by taking the following actions:
• Register them as a special needs customer with their utility so they will become a priority customer.
• Notify others that could provide help such as fire department, neighbors, nearby friends, or relatives.
• Have a list of emergency numbers readily available.
• Have a standby generator or an alternative source of power available. Be aware of the safety rules for its use.

[*Source: NYS Emergency Management Office]