From Emergency Volunteer Corps of Nehalem Bay
Here we are again going into the cold weather season when power outages should be on everyone’s radar. Strong winter winds and heavy rains can take a toll on power lines and plunge our homes into darkness. You can–and should–take steps now, before the lights start flickering.
None of us knows whether a power outage will last hours or days, so you should have supplies on hand to help you stay warm, have lighting and be able to eat simple meals. Turn off and unplug appliances and computers. Leave one light on to indicate when power has been restored.
A wood stove or fireplace can provide heat, or you could use a standby generator or portable power station. Be aware that gasoline powered generators MUST stay outside your house. If you use kerosene or propane space heaters, be careful to provide lots of space around them and don’t leave them unattended. To conserve existing heat within your home, concentrate your activities in one or two adjacent rooms.
This is a good time to take stock of lanterns and flashlights you have on hand and be sure to have an ample supply of appropriate batteries to power them. Candles are a less safe option than a lantern but, when handled properly, they will do the job of providing some light.
Perhaps it’s time to buy some small propane bottles so you can use your outdoor barbecue grill to cook your food. Without a grill, you should check your pantry for ready-to-eat and canned foods–I’m looking at you peanut butter! Bread, butter, jelly and hard cheeses (such as cheddar) will keep at room temperature. Fruit and fresh vegetables can tide you over when you can’t cook. Protein bars, dry cereal and granola, tuna, crackers and no-bake treats are also good choices.
As for the food in your refrigerator and freezer, keep your freezer full and its doors closed and the food in it should stay safe to eat for 24 hours. Food in an unopened refrigerator will be safe for about 4 hours.
Before you forget, check these helpful websites to start your planning:
Evcnb.org
www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq/power-outages-and-indoor-air-quality-iaq#safely
www.ready.gov/winter-ready
Now that you’ve gone through your own checklist, don’t forget that you will likely be isolated from others since phones and possibly emails won’t be working. Having a Yellow Radio will allow you to keep in touch with friends and neighbors and check on those folks who might be alone or unprepared. Watch the EVCNB website for upcoming Yellow Radio classes at evcnb.org/events-and-training.
Power outages are certainly uncomfortable and frustrating. Prepare ahead of time and their inconvenience can be less so. Right now while the sky is clear, start asking around and see who might have a generator, fireplace or barbecue grill. Commiserating within a group of friends can make sheltering in place more tolerable. Who wants to play Monopoly?!?!