Staying safe during extended power outages: What to do in the absence of heat, refrigeration and electricity

Power outages can range from being mildly inconvenient to somewhat dangerous, depending on the circumstances. That said, it's always best to prepare ahead of time, for potential periods without power, while also knowing how to react when in the midst of an extended outage.

Preparation According to Ready.gov, one of the most important aspects of preparing for a power outage is having a proper inventory of household items. Homeowners and residents should make sure that they have emergency supplies including flashlights, radios, batteries and non-perishable foods. Anyone in the home who uses battery-operated medical equipment should also prepare a back-up. Similarly, residents should be aware of any perishable medications in the house, and understand how long each will last if they can't be stored at the proper temperature.