Power Outage
Extended power outages may impact the whole community and the economy. A power outage is when the electrical power goes out unexpectedly. A power outage may:
- Disrupt communications, water and transportation.
- Close retail businesses, grocery stores, gas stations, ATMs, banks and other services.
- Cause food spoilage and water contamination.
- Prevent use of medical devices.
https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/poweroutage/needtoknow.html
Food Safety
Refrigerated or frozen foods may not be safe to eat after the loss of power. Check out the document below to learn what you can do to keep food safe during a power outage, and when you need to throw away food that could make you sick.
Generator Safety
When used properly, portable and standby generators are a great option to provide backup power during blackouts.
The primary hazards to avoid when using a generator are carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning from the toxic engine exhaust, electric shock or electrocution, and fire. Follow the directions supplied with the generator.
Never use a generator, grill, camp stove or other gasoline, propane, natural gas or charcoal-burning devices inside a home, garage, basement, crawlspace or any partially enclosed area. Keep these devices outdoors, away from doors, windows and vents that could allow carbon monoxide to come indoors.
Downed Power Line Safety
Downed power lines can be deadly. ALWAYS assume a downed power line is live and avoid going near it or anything in contact with it.
