Preparation for a power outage often times begins before they even occur, especially during the winter months. Monmouth Fire Chief Casey Rexroat offers tips in preparing for those hours without power:
“When there is a power outage, I think that actually the preparation for the power outages probably starts before it even happens, especially when you get into the winter time and the snow and ice that could happen and sometimes get those high wind events and knocks down power lines. It doesn’t hurt for you to get prepared for that ahead of time. Get some batteries for the flashlights, a battery operated radio, most people can get things on their cellphones now, but maybe a charger for the cellphone to back that up, which would be good for your car when you are preparing that emergency kit for your car. Just prepare ahead of time. Get a few snacks and stash them away in a corner with some bottled water because you never know how long that power is going to be out. Maybe some extra blankets too.”
When the power does go out, Chief Rexroat says it is not a bad idea to unplug appliances or electronics, especially during brownouts when homes are only getting half power.
For the complete interview with Chief Rexroat, click here.