ReadyOhio Are You Ready for a Power Outage?

Are You Ready for a Power Outage?

What should people do if a power outage lasts longer than two days? Plan ahead. Be prepared. When making a disaster plan and when preparing disaster supply kits, have enough supplies, food and bottled water/drinks to sustain everyone in the household for at least 72 hours.

Know that power outages can happen at any time. ReadyOhio encourages Ohioans to learn what to do to prepare for and recover from all hazards and emergencies before they’re left in the dark.

Make a kit. Include a flashlight, portable radio, extra batteries, first aid kit, bottled water (at least one gallon per person per day for at least three days), nonperishable food, manual can opener, blankets or sleeping bags, protective clothing. Click here for a more complete disaster supplies kit checklist.

Secure appliances and equipment against power loss. Have a "land line" telephone that does not require electricity as cordless phones do. Purchase a high-quality surge protector for your computer and electronic equipment. If you have an electric garage door opener, know how to open your door manually.

Conserve vital resources. Maintain at least a half tank of gasoline in your vehicle(s) at all times, because fuel pumps require electricity. Turn off light switches and unplug appliances. Keep electricity use as low as possible.

Prepare an evacuation plan. Determine your home’s flood risk by contacting the Ohio Department of Natural Resources’ Floodplain Management Division. Decide in advance where your family would go in the event of an emergency evacuation and establish a family contact person outside of your area. If there is a possibility of a flash flood, move immediately to higher ground. Do not wait for instructions to evacuate.

Consult with professionals. Seek expert assistance from a licensed professional if you are considering purchasing a generator. If a member of your household has a disability that requires power-dependent equipment (oxygen or ventilator), register with your power company so they can provide appropriate assistance when necessary.

      NEVER use a generator inside homes, garages, crawlspaces, sheds or any enclosed area, even when using fans or opening doors and windows for ventilation. Deadly levels of carbon monoxide can quickly build up in these areas and linger for hours, even after the generator has shut off.

      Follow the instructions that come with your generator. Locate the unit outdoors and far from windows, doors and vents that could allow carbon monoxide to come indoors.

      Install battery-operated CO alarms or plug in CO alarms with battery backup in your home, according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Test batteries monthly.