Prepare for severe weather all year round! While spring and summer bring frequent storms, winter blizzards also pose risks. Stay informed and equipped to handle unplanned power outages. Stay safe with our storm safety tips.
Stay Informed
In the event of a significant outage or severe weather, we’ll keep our members informed with the latest information. Utilize the SmartHub app to report outages swiftly and receive real-time alerts. Stay up to date with our Outage Map or follow us on Facebook and Twitter. For immediate assistance, feel free to call us anytime. Your safety is our priority.
Be Prepared
- Stay informed about weather forecasts to anticipate high winds, heavy snow, or ice that could affect power lines.
- Prepare an outage kit with essentials like a battery-powered radio, flashlight, candles, matches, bottled water, and canned food.
- Have MVEA’s phone number handy for reporting outages; use a traditional or mobile phone as cordless phones may not work.
- Dress in layers to stay warm during winter outages.
- Educate children to avoid fallen or sagging power lines.
- Plan for power outages if you rely on electric life support equipment; consider backup generators or alternative power sources.
- Use battery backups for home offices to protect work on desktop PCs during outages.
- Minimize freezer and refrigerator door openings during outages; utilize blankets or dry ice for extra insulation.
- Refer to FoodSafety website for tips on food safety during and after outages.
- Exercise caution with portable generators; review Portable Generator Safety (PDF) guidelines for safe usage.
- Avoid using charcoal grills or gas ovens for heating to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Follow operating instructions and safety precautions when using alternative heat sources; keep a fire extinguisher nearby.
Prepare for storms with a ready-to-use storm kit. Store it in a cool, dry location and ensure all family members are familiar with its whereabouts.
A battery-powered radio
Fresh batteries
A Flashlight
Candles
Matches
A wind-up clock
Bottled water
Paper plates
Plastic utensils
If you’re caught in a lightning storm:
Get out of water and stay away from trees
Go indoors and keep clear of windows
Turn off the T.V. and other appliances
Teach children to stay away from fallen or sagging power lines. They could be energized and dangerous, even if the power is out.
