04/01/2026
The likely hood of another ice storm is getting stronger. Prepare today. Here is a list of important items to have ready for possible long term power outages.
* Special needs: plan for infants, elderly, disabled (meds, mobility aids, oxygen supply contingency).
* Water: store ≥1 gallon per person per day for 3–7 days (drinking/cooking); fill bathtubs for flushing if needed.
* Food: 3–7 days of nonperishables (ready-to-eat, canned, energy bars); manual can opener.
* Warmth: portable propane/kerosene heater only if safe/ventilated; extra blankets, sleeping bags, warm clothing, hats, gloves, hand warmers.
* Alternate power: fully charged power banks, solar charger, battery-powered or hand-crank radio, extra batteries (AA/AAA/D/C).
* Lighting: LED lanterns, headlamps, flashlights; avoid candles if possible.
* Fuel: fill vehicle gas tank; extra fuel for generators stored safely; know generator safe outdoor placement and CO risks.
* Generator: if available, test beforehand, have correct extension cords, fuel, and consider transfer switch installation by electrician.
* Medical/health: 7–14 day supply of prescription meds; first-aid kit, essential medical equipment with backup power, thermometer.
* Communications: list of emergency contacts (paper), portable phone chargers, power-saving plan for phones, NOAA weather radio.
* Home prep: insulate pipes (wrap with foam/heat tape), let faucets drip to prevent freezing, seal windows/doors, clear gutters, trim loose branches, bring outdoor furniture/garbage bins inside.
* Electricity safety: know how to shut off main breaker, keep fridge/freezer closed (48hrs for full freezer), unplug sensitive electronics before outage.
* Ice/roof risk: remove heavy ice/snow from roof edges if safe or hire pro; watch for ice dams.
* Travel prep: avoid driving; if must, carry winter emergency kit (blanket, shovel, ice scraper, sand/cat litter for traction, flares, jumper cables).
* Trees/lines: park vehicles away from trees/power lines; clear area under weak limbs.
* Fire safety: check smoke/CO detectors, have fire extinguisher accessible, avoid indoor use of grills/stoves/generators.
* Sanitation: extra toilet paper, moist towelettes, trash bags, household bleach for disinfection (follow dilution instructions).
* Cash/documents: small amount of cash, photocopies of IDs/insurance, keep important documents in waterproof bag.
* Community: check on neighbors, especially elderly; share tools and generator safety info.
* Post-storm: avoid downed power lines, report outages to utility, photos for insurance, wait for official “all clear” before travel.
