Icy, wintry mixes and freezing have caused significant power losses in the mid-Atlantic region and states that Frederick Mutual Insurance Company operates (Maryland, Pennsylvania, Delaware, D.C., Virginia, and North Carolina). With icy, wintry weather hitting our region again this week how can you keep safe? Here are tips from RedCross if you experience a power outage:
● Stay away from the downed power lines, park vehicles in protected areas.
● Unplug appliances and electronics, limit cell phone use to conserve battery life.
● Use portable generators outdoors only, well away from open windows and doors; Prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Do not use a gas stove to heat your home and do not use outdoor stoves indoors for heating or cooking. If using a generator, keep it outside in a well-ventilated area away from windows.
● Eat your fresh, perishable foods first. Avoid opening your refrigerator and freezer to preserve cool temperatures. An unopened refrigerator will keep foods cold for about 4 hours. A full freezer will keep the temperature for about 48 hours. Throw out food that has been warmer than 40 degrees F.
● Monitor alerts. Check local weather reports and any notifications. by phone, television, or radio. Utility officials may come to your door to alert you of a planned power outage.
● Contact your support network. Let people in your network know that you are OK, check to see if they are OK, and tell each other if you need help.
● Prevent power overloads and fire hazards. Unplug appliances and electronics to avoid power overloads or damage from power surges. Use flashlights, not candles. Turn off the utilities only if you suspect damage or if local officials instruct you to do so. Your gas line can only be turned on by a qualified professional. If any circuit breakers have been tripped, contact an electrician to inspect them before turning them on.
● Decide if you need to stay or go. Evacuate if your home is too hot or too cold, or if you have medical devices that need power. Communities often provide warming or cooling centers and power charging stations.
Get the Insurance You Need
Protect your home or business from power outages caused by wintry weather that my cause damage to your home or business. Contact us at marketing@frederickmutual.com for a quote on your homeowners and/or business insurance. Frederick Mutual offers coverages for spoilage, repair to damaged service lines, and equipment breakdown that may occur due to the winter weather in our region. If you are a homeowner or business owner in Maryland, Pennsylvania, D.C., Delaware, Virginia, or North Carolina see what insurance coverages are available to you in your state. Keep safe as this next wintry mix hits!