City and county experts say plan now for next power outage (2024)

Photo courtesy Seattle City Light

Tips from King County public health and Seattle City Light

Following last week’s cyclone bomb and wind storm three days later, many families in Puget Sound were without power for days. As the season of power outages rolls in along with the holidays, Public Health — Seattle & King County offers the following tips and cautions for staying safe and warm when the power is out. When storms are on the horizon, be sure to check King County Emergency News for information about cold weather shelters, places where you can charge electronics, and road closures.

Avoiding health and safety risks

High winds and power outages can bring several health and safety risks. If you see damaged or downed power lines, don’t go near them, avoid any standing water, and call the utility company about the line.

Prevent carbon monoxide poisoning—never use generators, charcoal or gas grills, or

propane heaters indoors. Get a carbon monoxide detector for your home and check the batteries. More information, including links to translated posters and information:kingcounty.gov/carbonmonoxide.

Food poisoning is also a risk when the power goes out. Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed to keep cold air inside. If possible, move perishable food to a cooler with ice packs or frozen items, and place it outside in the shade. If foods are above 40°F too long they could make you sick. When in doubt, throw it out! More information:cdc.gov/foodsafety

Wear several layersof light weight, warm clothing instead of one layer of heavy clothing. Wear hats, mittens, and blankets indoors, stay together in one room with the door closed, and close curtains and cover windows and doors with blankets. Have a backup plan of places to go to stay warm during a long outage, like a friend’s home that has power, the library, a community center, or a shopping mall.

Hypothermia: Cold temperatures can make your body’s temperature drop dangerously low. Learn how torecognize this condition and what to do.

This blog post has more information and tips about safety if your home is without electricity:Brrrr! How to stay warm and safe when the power is out – PUBLIC HEALTH INSIDER

Plan ahead for road closures if you have medical needs

Fallen trees and other winter weather events can disrupt traffic and close roads, and make it hard for people to get to medical appointments or get the medical supplies they need.

Things to consider if you depend on:

• Oxygen tanks, medication prescriptions, or other medical supplies: Plan with your doctor, pharmacist, or medical service provider about what to do if they can’t be delivered or if you can’t get to the pharmacy. Ask your doctor and/or pharmacist if you can have a 3-day emergency supply.
• Medical equipment powered by electricity(beds, breathing equipment or infusion pumps): Check with your medical supply company and get information about a back-up power source such as a battery or generator.
• Intravenous and feeding tube equipment: Know if your infusion pump has battery back-up, and how long it would last in an emergency.Ask your home care provider about manual infusion techniques in case of a power outage.
• Dialysis: Make back-up arrangements for transportation, like asking a friend with an all-wheel drive vehicle to help you get to your dialysis appointment. Get information about other dialysis facilities in your area, and find out if they provide the type of treatment you need. Contact the facility to be sure they can treat you in an emergency. Know what diet to follow if your dialysis must be delayed.

Get prepared now for the next power outage

According to Seattle City Light, a little preparation in dull weather times can go a long way to keep you and your family safe and comfortable when the next power outage comes along. The power company recommends these three steps:

• Have a 7-day kit ready: For tips on what you need, visit Seattle’s emergency management webpage.
• Have a plan: Have a meeting place and list of contacts easily accessible, including and out-of-state contact to act as a point of contact.
• Carry Cash: Physical currency will ensure purchases if ATMs and credit cards don’t work.

More health and safety tips for winter weather

High winds can bring down large amounts of fallen branches, leaves, and pine needles. Clear storm drains on your property and street to prevent flooding.

Share outage safety information with others to help them stay safe, and check up on people who may need help during severe weather.

Visit Public Health —Seattle and King County’s Winter weather safety and preparationpage for additional resources.

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