Outage Tips
Power Outage Tips To Help You Stay Safe
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Stay far away from downed electric lines. Don't touch them, even with a stick. Just because the power lines are damaged does not mean that they are dead. Every downed power line is potentially energized and dangerous until the utility crews arrive and ensure that power has been cut off. Anything in contact with downed power lines has the potential to deliver a fatal shock.
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Look around. If your house is the only one without power, check your circuit breakers.
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Don't call 911 just because your electricity is out. Call 911 only if there is an immediate danger. Otherwise, call Clark Electric Cooperative at 1-800-272-6188 or 1-800-927-5707.
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Limit opening your refrigerator and freezer. The food will stay colder if the door is kept shut. If the freezer is full, frozen foods can stay frozen for two days. When power returns, throw out anything that smells unusual.
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Know how to override your electric garage door opener.
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Flashlights and extra batteries
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Battery-powered radio
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Keep extra blankets on hand.
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Dress warmly. Several layers of lightweight loose clothing will keep you warmer than one heavy layer.
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Extra food. High energy food, such as dried fruit or candy, and food requiring no cooking or refrigeration is best.
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Make sure you have extra baby supplies and food.
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Extra water. If you are on a well, fill a bathtub or milk jugs with water as soon as a storm is forecasted.
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First-aid supplies.
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An emergency heat source such as a fireplace. Be extremely careful with kerosene heaters and never use charcoal or gas grills indoors. Carbon monoxide is a silent killer.
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Keep in mind that gas equipment with electronic ignition, such as ovens and water heaters will ot work in the event of an electric power outage.
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Unplug sensitive electronic equipment, such as computers or enterainment systems during an outage. To avoid overloading the power system do not try to operate several electric appliances as soon as the power comes back on.
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Have a backup plan with for any family or friends dependent on electrically operated medical equipment.
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Generators are especially important if you have livestock to water. For safety, install a double throw disconnect switch.
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Fire extinguisher and smoke detector. Test units regularly.
