Winter Storm Safety

Generator Safety

Generators are a great addition to your emergency plan, but please take a few moments and review these safety tips from the NFPA.

• Generators should be operated in well-ventilated locations outdoors away from all doors, windows and vent openings.
• Never use a generator in an attached garage, even with the door open.
• Place generators so that exhaust fumes can’t enter the home through windows, doors or other openings in the building.
• Make sure to install carbon monoxide (CO) alarms in your home. Follow manufacturer’s instructions for correct placement and mounting height.
• Turn off generators and let them cool down before refueling. Never refuel a generator while it is running.
• Store fuel for the generator in a container that is intended for the purpose and is correctly labeled as such. Store the containers outside of living areas.

Building Your Preparedness Kit

Winter storms could lead to power outages and keep you indoors for an extended period of time. Consider having at least these supplies on hand.

• Nonperishable food items (include foods which do not need to be cooked in case of a power outage)
• Water
• Extra blankets
• Specialty Items (medications, infant formula, personal hygiene items, etc.)
• Warm clothing
• Flashlights with extra batteries
• First Aid Kit
• Charged communications devices (external charger as well for those devices)
• Portable AM/FM/Weather radio and extra batteries
• Shovel/snow blower (as needed)

See a full list of supplies at Ready.gov.

While we encourage you to stay off the roads when possible during a winter storm, keep these supplies in your vehicle just in case you must travel or get caught during a storm.

• Blankets, gloves/mittens, warm hat, and boots
• First aid kit
• Cell phone charger
• Jumper cables
• Water and snacks
• Snow brush / shovel
• Kitty litter or sand (for traction)
• Tie rope
• Flashlight
• Full tank of gas when possible
• Spare tire

When The Power Goes Out

Here are a few steps you can take when the power goes out.

• Close off unneeded rooms to avoid wasting heat.
• Stuff towels or rags in cracks under doors.
• Close blinds or curtains to keep in some heat.
• Eat and drink. Food provides the body with energy for producing its own heat.
• Drink lots of water and other non-caffeinated, non-alcoholic drinks to prevent dehydration. Cold air is very dry.
• Wear layers of loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing. Remove layers to prevent overheating, perspiration, and subsequent chill.
• Notify your provider via their app, website or phone call.