A storm system moving into Western New York on Sunday is expected to bring high winds that could cause damage to trees, power lines, and property.
Widespread power outages are possible.
Is your home prepped in case there is a power outage? National Grid has some tips on how you can be prepared:
- Gather items to fill your storm kit (You can find the list here)
- Establish a “safe room” in a windowless interior room. Keep your storm kit there.
- Turn your refrigerator and freezer to their coldest settings ahead of time to keep food fresh longer in the event of a power outage.
- Turn off and unplug any unnecessary or sensitive electrical equipment.
- Use surge protectors.
- Charge the battery for your cell phone and laptop computers.
Here's what National Grid says you should do if your power goes out:
- Unplug computers, televisions, and microwaves, to avoid potential power surge damage when electricity is restored.
- Leave a light switch on that will let you know when the power is back on.
- Keep refrigerator and freezer doors shut—food will stay fresh six to nine hours in a refrigerator without spoiling. Frozen foods will keep about 24 hours.
- Use generators safely
- If your home has flooded, check with an electrician before turning on anything.
- Keep warm! But burn only wood or newspapers in your fireplace or woodstove.
- If your power will be out multiple days, consider taking your family to an alternative location until power is restored.
- Consider all downed wires to be energized and dangerous, including telephone, fiber optic, and cable TV wires.
- If you use a portable space heater, check to make sure it has an Underwriters Laboratories safety label and an automatic shutoff device that turns the heater off if it tips over or becomes too hot.
