Staying Safe During Winter Power Outages
The DeKalb County Emergency Management Agency is reminding individuals on how to stay safe if the power goes out during the winter season.
They share the following:
Keep Your Home Safe & Warm
• Layer up: Wear multiple layers, hats, socks, and blankets to retain body heat.• Close off unused rooms: Concentrate heat in one safe area of the home.• Block drafts: Use towels or blankets under doors and windows.• Never use grills, generators, or propane heaters indoors. This can cause deadly carbon monoxide poisoning.
Light, Power & Communication
• Flashlights over candles to prevent fires.• Keep extra batteries and power banks charged while power is still on.• If you have a generator, operate it outdoors only and far from windows or doors.• Keep a battery-powered radio to receive emergency updates.
Food & Water
• Store at least 1 gallon of water per person per day for 3 days (more if possible).• Keep non-perishable foods that don’t require cooking.• Avoid opening the refrigerator/freezer often — food stays cold longer when closed.
If You Must Travel
• Keep your vehicle’s gas tank at least half full.• Store an emergency car kit: blankets, water, snacks, flashlight, phone charger, and jumper cables.• Let someone know your route and expected arrival time.
Check on Others
• Check on elderly neighbors, those with medical needs, and pets.• Make sure anyone using medical devices has a backup power plan.
Stay Informed
• Follow trusted local updates.• Download the DeKalb EMA App for alerts, weather updates, and emergency information.
