 You should prepare for extreme weather by having on hand extra supplies and ensuring that each family member has a warm coat, gloves, hat and water-resistent boots. Remember to bring the family pets indoors or provide protective shelter during extreme weather. Listen to weather radio or local radio and TV stations for updated storm information.
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Winter outage tips
Supplies to have on hand at home and for your car include:
- First Aid kit and essential medications
- Battery-powered radio, flashlight and extra batteries
- Canned food and can opener
- Bottled water (at least 1 gallon per person per day)
- Extra warm clothing, boots, hats, and blankets
When a winter storm warning is issued:
- Stay indoors during the storm if possible
- If you must go outside, several layers of lightweight clothing will keep you warmer than a single heavy coat. Wear gloves and a hat to prevent loss of body heat
- Understand the hazards of wind chill on exposed skin. When wind increases, heat is carried away from the body at an accelerated rate
- Walk carefully on snowy and icy surfaces
- Avoid traveling by car and risking being stranded, but if you must . . .
- Carry a "disaster kit" in the trunk
- Keep the car's gas tank full for emergency use and to keep the fuel line from freezing
- Always let someone know your destination, route of travel and expected time of arrival
- Carry a cell phone if you have one
If you do get stranded:
- Stay with your car. Do not try to walk to safety
- Tie a brightly colored cloth to the car antenna for rescuers to see
- Start the car and use the heater for about 10 minutes per hour Keep the exhaust pipe clear of of snow or ice to prevent fumes from backing up in the car
- Leave the overhead light on when the engine is running to increase chances of being seen
- Keep moving your arms and legs to help circulation and stay warm
- Slightly open one window away from blowing wind to let in air
Summer outage tips
- Close drapes and blinds on the sunny side of your home
- During the day, go to an air-conditioned building such as a library or shopping mall
- Wear lightweight, light-colored loose clothing. It reflects heat and sunlight
- Drink plenty of cool liquids even if you don't feel thirsty
- Strenuous activities should be reduced, eliminated or rescheduled to the coolest time of the day
- Individuals at risk should stay in the coolest available place, not necessarily indoors
- Eat light. Avoid hot, heavy meals and opt for foods high in water content such as fruits and salads
- Take baths and showers. Because water conducts heat away from the body, bathing in tepid water is a good cooling technique
- Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible
Reminder: Call toll-free 1-888-LIGHTKC (1-888-544-4852) to report outages, flickering lights, lines down or other damage-related problems.
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