Don’t wait for a harsh wintry forecast, plan now!
Severe winter weather provides the potential for power outages–some which could be lengthy.
BEFORE you are impacted by a blizzard or ice storm, gather up the following items:
- Disaster kit: Learm more about building your own kit HERE. Inside your kit you should have available for winter weather use:
- Battery-powered or hand crank radio or NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert.
- Flashlight (We do not recommend candles)
- First aid kit
- Extra batteries
- Manual can opener for food
- Cell phone non-electrical chargers
- Water. One gallon per person, per day.
- Non-perishable food.
- Extra blankets and warm clothing
- Medications, enough supply for the duration of a winter storm
- Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children
PORTABLE GENERATORS
Portable generators are a great tool to help you through the duration of a lengthy power outage. That said, we urge you to take the time to research units, and weigh options against your own needs inside your household.
Most importantly, please take the time to consider safety tips for the use of portable generators.
ELECTRICAL USAGE
Winter weather also unleashes a chill you may notice in your electric bill. You can monitor your usage in real time on our SmartHub portal. Keep track of your habits, daily weather patterns, and notice how these factors impact your usage. Awareness of your usage as it happens can help you identify opportunities to minimize your use, or apply energy efficiency measures for more long-term benefit.