Climate watchers are warning that weather dynamics that have unfolded in the first few months of 2024 may contribute to an active storm pattern early in this year’s Atlantic hurricane season. The cautionary reports underscore the importance of emergency preparedness to minimize the problems and dangers that severe storms can create.
“None of us likes to think about it, but advance preparations really can make the difference between weathering a storm with minimal impacts or something far, far worse,” Community Electric’s manager of operations, Glen Presson, says. “I urge all our member-owners to fast-forward a few weeks in their thinking as to how they will act to safeguard family members and their property when extreme weather bears down on us.”
One preparedness measure that can make a big difference in overcoming a power outage, particularly an extended one, is the availability of a standby power generator. From a safety standpoint, it’s important that members who are considering the purchase of a standby generator give themselves sufficient lead time to become familiar with the machinery’s installation and operation, Presson says. CEC’s RECORE subsidiary can assist with safety procedures and offers three brands of standby generators with various power capacities – Generac, Cummins, and Briggs and Stratton – with a 10 percent discount for member-owners.
- Assemble an emergency kit. It should include at least a three-day supply of water, non-perishable food, medication, first aid supplies, a flashlight, weather radio and extra batteries. Include a list of emergency contacts.
- Charge your cell phone and have external, backup power sources charged.
- Develop an evacuation plan in case it’s needed. Communicate the plan to your family. Include pets or livestock in your plan.
- Secure outdoor items. Safely store lawn furniture, decorations, toys, garbage cans and other items that can be brought indoors.
- Close windows and doors in the event of high winds.
- Fuel up. Fill up your vehicles before the storm as a loss of power could affect gas stations.
- Consider having supplies handy for your propane or charcoal grill. Be sure to grill outdoors in well-ventilated areas for safety.