Be Prepared for Power Outages KREMC advises members to always be prepared for the possibility of power outages, and urges members to do the following: • Always keep a battery-powered radio or TV, flashlights, and a supply of fresh batteries available. • Know where to find extra blankets. • Fill spare containers with water for washing, and keep a supply of bottled drinking water on hand. • Keep a supply of non-perishable food items, along with a manual can opener. • During an outage, switch off lights and appliances to prevent overloading circuits and damaging appliances when power is restored. Leave one lamp or switch on as a signal for when your power returns. • To prevent water pipes from freezing, keep faucets turned on slightly so that water drips from the tap. • Never use a charcoal grill to cook or heat with inside the home. Charcoal grills give off deadly carbon monoxide gas. Grills should be used only outdoors. • Assemble a disaster supply kit that includes needed items ahead of time. Include a first aid kit, any prescription medicines, and any special items needed for infant, elderly or disabled family members. • Maintain body warmth by staying inside and dressing in warm, layered clothing. • Close off unneeded rooms. • If using an alternative heat source, follow operating instructions, use fire safeguards and be sure to properly ventilate. • Stuff towels and rags underneath doors to keep heat in. • Cover windows at night. • Eat. Food provides the body with energy to generate its own heat. • Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. • Move around to keep warm, but not enough to perspire. Perspiration causes the body to lose fluids which could potentially lead to dehydration. • If you use a standby generator, make sure it has a transfer safety switch or double throw disconnect switch before you operate it. This prevents electricity from traveling back through the power lines, or what is known as “back feed.” Back feed creates danger for anyone near power lines, particularly crews working to restore power. Most importantly, KREMC reminds members to treat all downed and hanging lines as if they are active electric lines: stay away, and warn others to stay away, and immediately contact KREMC.