Be Prepared for Storms and Outages!
Have you heard of an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS)?
In the event of an outage (so long as fiber/internet has not gone out), an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) with your modem and router plugged into it would allow you to use data on your cellphone to be able to call us and notify us of the outage and communicate to anyone you need to. A UPS is essentially a battery backup with a surge protector that will power devices for varying lengths of time depending on how big of a UPS and what you are plugging into it. Since many members do not have a landline any longer, this could be very helpful when the power goes out!
Here are a few UPS options to check out:
There are many options to fit your budget. Here are other UPS options: https://amzn.to/3CjAi1Z
Storm Checklist
To report an outage, call DCEC at 1-607-746-9283.
If your lights go off during a storm, be prepared for the power outage. Assemble supplies to have on hand rather than rushing around when the storm is coming and waiting in long lines for milk or bread. Rotate your supplies to keep them fresh and use the following checklist to prepare for power outages:
Have Plenty of Food
- Keep a 3- to 5-day supply of drinking water in plastic bottles. Plan on at least 1 gallon of water per person, per day.
- Store a manual can opener with enough nonperishable foods for 3 to 5 days. Canned meats, tuna fish and peanut butter are good foods to store. Don’t forget pet foods!
- Conserve water by using paper plates and plastic utensils.
- Have a camp stove or grill for outdoor cooking.
Stay In Touch
- Have a portable, battery-powered radio and alarm clock.
- Have one non-portable phone that will work even if power is interrupted - or plug your modem and router into a UPS to allow for data usage.
- Plan where to meet and how to communicate with family members if separated.
- Keep essential family member contact information near your phone, in your wallet, and in your glove compartment.
Keep Things Going
- Keep plenty of gas in your car.
- Keep extra batteries, matches, propane, charcoal, and firewood.
Stay Happy, Healthy and Warm
- Coordinate with neighbors for care of the elderly and disabled living alone.
- Maintain a supply of prescriptions, nonprescription drugs, vitamins, and special dietary foods.
- Playing cards, books, drawing and writing supplies, and board games help pass the time. If you have a video camera and tapes, your family can make a storm documentary.
- Keep sanitary and personal hygiene supplies replenished. Premoistened cleansing towelettes are useful and help conserve water.
- Use plastic trash bags and ties for garbage.
- Put first-aid kits in your home and car.
- Make sure you have cold weather clothing, foul weather gear, blankets, and sleeping bags.
- Consider purchasing alternative UL-approved heating devices. For example, a fireplace insert or woodstove will keep the heat in your home instead of up the chimney.
- Use flashlights and other battery-operated lighting instead of candles.
- Keep fire extinguishers fully charged.
- Fill your bathtub with water for bathroom use before the storm (if you have a well).
Check to see current weather conditions.