Lost power in snowstorm? Here’s what to do

ST. LOUIS – Another round of winter weather is making its way across the area, with Ameren reporting some outages early Tuesday morning. If you find yourself without power in winter, here is a list of what to do—as well as what not to do—to keep you and your family safe and warm.

Preparing for an outage

If a power outage is a possibility in your area during winter weather, it is best to start preparing by determining what in your household relies on electricity. Portable chargers for electronic devices are encouraged to be charged beforehand, and its recommended to have working batteries. Additionally, flashlights should be available to household members.

It’s strongly encouraged to have battery-operated carbon monoxide detectors throughout your home in the event of a power outage.

Residences are recommended to have non-perishable food items and water stocked, as well as plans for any medical devices or refrigerated medications.

In the event residents need to leave to seek shelters, vehicle’s gas tanks should be filled or charged for electric vehicles.

During an outage

Many turn to generators during a power outage, but it is important to use it safely. According to Ready.gov, generators must be outdoors and at least 20 feet away from the home in a dry spot. Any appliance connected to the generator should be used with heavy-duty extension cords.

Stovetops and ovens should never be used as a method to heat your home, as this can increase risk for carbon monoxide poisoning, fires, or burning the appliance. If using a car to warm up, the vehicle should be in a well-ventilated area, and not in the garage–even if the garage door is open.

As mentioned above, carbon monoxide detectors should be used on every level of the home.

Electronics and appliances should be disconnected to prevent electrical surges, and refrigerators should be left closed.

If available and needed, residents should seek local warming shelters. If staying at home, watch for nearby boil advisories.

After an outage

Once the power returns, residents should go through their refrigerator and throw out any food that is no longer good. Items that have sat in the fridge in 40+ degree temperatures for more than four hours should be thrown away. FEMA adds that when in doubt, throw it out.

Additionally, if power is out for more than a day, medication that needs to be refrigerated should be replaced.

For more information on what to do in power outages, click here.