Preparing for power outages due to heat waves

7/22/2024 (Permalink)

Managing Without Electricity

A power outage can:

• Disrupt communication
• Make transportation difficult
• Shut down water pipes
• Close businesses, grocery stores, gas stations, banks, ATM, other services
• Disable medical devices

During a power outage be sure to:

• Keep freezer & refrigerator doors closed. It will reduce the chance of food spoilage
• User generators only outdoors and away from windows
• Disconnect appliances/electronics. Power surges can destroy equipment
• Have already set up plan to refrigerate medicines
• For people who use power wheelchairs, have a backup battery.  You may also need a manual chair
• The local power company should already know that someone in your home relies on medical devices
• If travel is safe, go to another location for proper heating or cooling
• Check on your neighbors they may need assistance especially if they are older.