Power Outage Safety

It is more important than ever to be be prepared for the worst during the winter season, which is why you may see so many safety tip posts on North Shore Buzz lately. Today, we will feature Mass.gov’s Power Outage Safety Tips. They have tips for before, during, and after an outage. Here are the tips for safety during a power outage:

• Dress for the season, wearing several layers of loose fitting, lightweight, warm clothing, rather than one layer of heavy clothing.  The outer garments should be tightly woven and water repellent.
• Mittens are better than gloves.
• Wear a hat; most body heat is lost through the top of the head.
• Cover your mouth with a scarf to protect your lungs.
• Watch for signs of frostbite: loss of feeling and white or pale appearance in the extremities such as fingers, toes, ear lobes or the tip of the nose.  If symptoms are detected, seek medical help immediately.
• Watch for signs of hypothermia: uncontrollable shivering, memory loss, disorientation, incoherence, slurred speech, drowsiness and apparent exhaustion.  If symptoms are detected, get the victim to a warm location, remove any wet clothing, warm the center of the body first and give warm, non-alcoholic beverages, if the victim is conscious.  Get medical help, as soon as possible.
• Snowdrifts can be used as a makeshift freezer for food. (Be aware of attracting animals).

• Snow can be melted for an additional water source.

• In order to protect against possible voltage irregularities that can occur when power is restored, you should unplug all sensitive electronic equipment, including TVs, stereo, VCR, microwave oven, computer, cordless telephone, answering machine and garage door opener.

The full list can be found HERE.