* Be alert for fallen wires, trees, or poles. Stay away from all wires; they could be “live.”
* Take steps to keep food in refrigerators safe. Bacteria on foods begin multiplying once food temperature rises above normal refrigeration temperatures.
* Keep the doors of freezers and refrigerators shut; open only when absolutely necessary. Foods will keep longer in refrigeration if doors stay closed.
* Monitor refrigerator and freezer temperatures with a thermometer. Refrigerator temperatures should not rise beyond 40 degrees; freezer temperatures should remain at 0 degrees.
* Dress to stay warm. Remember heat loss is faster through your hands and the top of your head, so were gloves and a knit hat.
* Unplug or turn off major appliances (e.g. TV, stereo, computers, freezers, refrigerators) to prevent damage when power comes back on. Leave a light to signal you that power is restored.
* If you have a generator, do not connect it to your home's power system unless it has been properly installed and disconnects you from the main power grid when it is operating. If you do not disconnect from the power grid, you can be sending electricity back down the lines; not just to your home. That could be deadly for power company workers.
* Use a fireplace or regular wood stove for heat. Never use kerosene heaters or outdoor-type heater inside your home. These devices could produce carbon monoxide, a deadly poisonous gas.
* Drive carefully if you go out, particularly at intersections. Traffic signals will be out during the power outage.