Energize and Organize: Covid and Extreme Weather Emergency Preparedness

This week there is a record smashing  cold  sweeping the nation from southern Texas to northern Maine.  At least 150 million people, in 25 states stretching over 2,000 miles,  are under a winter weather advisory. Power outages and rolling blackouts are happening around the country due to the extreme weather conditions and high energy demands.

Here are some Covid and Extreme Weather Emergency Prepardness tips from several government agencies to help you and your loved ones stay safe and well.

Center for Disease Control and Prevention

• Stay indoors.  If you must go outside, bundle up with extra layers of clothing.
• Stay off the extremely hazardous and dangerous roads if you can.
• Take inventory of your essential supplies -  extra medicine, extra nonperishable food and water for 3-7 days, hand sanitizer (that contains at least 60% alcohol) and masks,  first aid supplies, flashlights and extra batteries for every household member and a battery powered radio if you have one.
• Warm up using extra blankets, sleeping bags, winter coats, etc. if you lose heat and are cold inside.
• If using a fireplace, be sure it's properly vented to the outside to prevent gas from leaking into your home.
• If using portable space heaters, be sure they are away from flammable fabrics and materials.
• If using a generator, it should be outside, about 20 feet away from your home as generators can release poisonous carbon monoxide if you use them inside your home or garage. Generators should NOT be near windows!
• Be mindful that some water purifications systems many not function fully when the power goes out.
• Watch for signs of hypothermia.  These symptoms in adults include confusion, shivering, difficulty speaking, sleepiness and stiff muscles.  In babies, these symptoms include bright red skin and low energy.  If you suspect a loved one has hypothermia, bundle them up with warm blankets and call 911.
• Conserve energy by turning off and unplugging nonessential lights and appliances. Avoid using large appliances like ovens and washing machines if you can  Turn down your thermostat to 68 degrees to help prevent blackouts.

FEMA

• Keep your fridge or freezer door shut during a power outage to help keep your food cold.
• A fridge can keep food cold during an outage for about four hours if it is unopened.
• A full freezer will keep its temperature for about 48 hours if the door remains closed.
• Fill coolers with ice to keep food from spoiling if needed.
• When in doubt, throw it out!
• Visit Food Safety for a comprehensive list of food evaluation information.

National Weather Service

• Close blinds, curtains and drapes to keep the heat in.  
• Stuff towels under door cracks to keep the chill out.
• Close off rooms to avoid wasting heat.
• Eat and drink throughout the outage will help keep your body warm.
• Don't forget about your pets this winter.  Make sure they have a warm, dry place to rest with plenty of food and water.
• Visit Weather Ready for excellent weather resource links and graphics.

Ready.gov

• You should never use a gas stove or oven to heat your home.
• ​Disconnect appliances and electronics to avoid damage from electrical surges.
• Use a thermometer in the fridge and freezer so you can know the temperature when the power is restored.  Throw food out if the temperature is 40 degrees or higher.
• ​Keep mobile phones charged and car and generator tanks full.
• If you need to seek shelter, be sure it is safe for you to travel and be sure to wear a mask or layer two masks.  Bring extra masks in case your stay is extended.
• Be a good neighbor and check on the welfare of others.
• Visit this site  for additional,  informative online disaster planning resources including pandemic, winter weather, emergency kit building, etc.

Remember, if you need professional organizing assistance and support with your family life, home and/or office, you are cordially invited to contact ...
Donna LaRoche, M.Ed., Professional Organizer Serving Cape Cod, Metro West and Eastern Massachusetts  Contact 617.640.2366    www.energizeandorganize.com