Here are some steps you can take before, during and after a power outage.
Extra cash will come in handy too, since credit card processing equipment and ATMs won’t function during a power outage, said Cynthia Shaw, a Red Cross spokeswoman.
Residents also should know how to manually open garage doors so they can quickly exit their home if necessary, she said. Street lights won’t be working, so be aware of potential delays because of dark roads.Inexpensive foam coolers will help keep food from spoiling during an outage. Surround perishables with ice in a cooler or the refrigerator to help food stay cold longer.Have at least half a tank of gas in your car, and if you can, fill extra containers with gas.
The Red Cross suggests leaving one light on so you know when the power returns. You also can purchase a generator to power critical equipment, but make sure you knowUsing candles during a power outage may be tempting, but they are a fire hazard, Shaw said. “People could tip the candles and start a fire in their homes,” she said. “With the winds, that fire could spread to multiple homes very quickly.”Keep your refrigerator doors closed
Without power, an unopened refrigerator can keep food cold for up to four hours, according to the Red Cross. A full freezer can keep its temperature for 48 hours, if the door stays closed.Perishable food should have a temperature of 40 degrees Fahrenheit or lower to be safe to eat.
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