What if you didn’t have power for one, two or even three days? With the cold winter weather upon us in Windsor and Essex County and damaging ice storms in the news every winter, now is the best time to be prepared.
Useful items
- A home phone that is not portable that can be used without electricity. Also consider purchasing car chargers for your cell phones.
- A battery operated or ‘crank’ radio and flashlights. Flashlights and battery operated lanterns are much safer than candles.
- ‘Ready to eat’ foods and a non-electric can opener.
- Keep extra bottled water handy.
- An alternate cooking source such as a camp stove, just remember to never use it indoors.
- Books and non-electric games will help you and your family stay entertained.
Helpful tips:
- Unplug ‘surge sensitive’ electronic items - like computers and televisions.
- Try not to open your refrigerator or freezer to help keep your perishable food from spoiling.
- Check on your neighbours to be sure they are safe.
- If you have a generator, remember to never use it indoors, in a garage or in an enclosed porch. Check that it’s well ventilated and running properly.
To be without electricity for an extended period is the worst case scenario, but it’s best to be prepared just in case.