The cold weather brings along snow and ice storms which could cause power outages. Prepare yourselves by stocking up on batteries, canned goods, bottled water, a hand-crank can opener, (don’t forget this – it’s nearly impossible to open a can without one) flashlights, battery operated lanterns, extra blankets, etc. You should have a battery operated radio handy, to listen to emergency broadcasting, weather updates, etc.  If you know a storm is coming, fill your bathtub or five gallon buckets, with water. You can use this water to flush your toilet by dipping a pail into the water and pouring it directly into the toilet bowl.

What to do when the power goes out:

1. Keep refrigerator and / or freezer closed as much as possible.
2. Unplug all sensitive electronic equipment including TVs, stereo, VCR, microwave oven, computer, cordless telephone, and answering machine, in the event of a power surge when the power comes back on.
3. Dress in layers of loose fitting, lightweight, warm clothing.
4. If your medications require refrigeration check with your pharmacist for advice on storing medications during extended power outages.
5. If you notice any downed power lines stay away from them and contact CMP immediately. Keep kids and pets away from them too.
6. Watch for signs of hypothermia: uncontrollable shivering, memory loss, disorientation, incoherence, slurred speech, drowsiness and apparent exhaustion. If symptoms are detected, get the victim to a warm location, remove any wet clothing, warm the center of the body first and give warm, non-alcoholic beverages if the victim is conscious. Get medical help as soon as possible.