Power Outages

In the Upper Cumberland, we are currently dealing with power outages due to the Winter Weather Advisory. Though many are experiencing this, how are you preparing yourself? In this week’s blog, we are going to discuss how we need to deal with the loss of electricity. It has been reported that we may have to deal with no electricity for a few days as many lines have been knocked down, frozen, and blown. The loss of power can halt livelihood, but what are you going to do to ensure your safety? 

• Keep freezers and refrigerators closed. - A full refrigerator can keep items cold for up to 4 hours. A full freezer can keep food frozen for up to 48 hours when kept consistently closed. Use coolers with ice if necessary. Make sure to maintain food supplies that do not need refrigeration. 

• Use a generator, but only outdoors and away from windows. 

• Do NOT use a gas stove or oven to heat your home.

• Disconnect any devices and/or appliances to avoid damage from electrical surges. 

• Have alternate plans for refrigerating any medication or using power-dependant medical devices. 

• If it is safe, go to an alternate location where power is accessible. 

• Be a good neighbor - Check on the welfare of others.

Be Safe After: 

• When in doubt, throw it out! Throw away any food that has been exposed to 40 degrees or more for over two hours. Make sure to check and throw any food that has any discoloration, odd odor, color or texture. 

• If the power has been out for more than a day, discard any medication that requires refrigeration. Call your pharmacist immediately for a new supply.

• Check your appliances for any damage from the electrical surges. 

• Power outages can cause a disruption in the community, so be sure to prepare!