Stay safe during severe weather: Ice and other severe weather can result in power outages
When severe winter weather hits, power outages can occur. Roadways can be dangerous. Do all you can to prepare your pantry, home and car for the next severe winter storm. Once you are ready, watch and listen for weather bulletins mentioning winter storms, blizzard warnings, or windchill dangers.
At home, have enough nonperishable food, water and medical supplies/ medicines for 72 hours. The Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggest storing one gallon of water per person per day. Have cellphones and chargers, as well as backup charger sources, ready. Also have these items ready: a first-aid kit, a flashlight and batteries, hand sanitizer, blankets, and warm clothing.
Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors on each floor of your home. Protect pipes from freezing.
Pack an emergency kit - check out the graphic for details. Complete annual maintenance, test the car battery and cooling system, use winter tires and replace them if the tread is less than 2/32 of an inch, check tire pressure and wiper blades, add wiper fluid rated for less than minus 30 degrees and keep the gas tank at least half full.
Know that when the power goes out, we work hard to restore it safely and efficiently. To submit an outage or view our outage map, download the Cass County Electric mobile app.
