Our local Aitkin, Carlton, and West St. Louis Counties teams restore storm damage 24 hours daily in Floodwood. Before a power outage, taking certain precautions can significantly enhance safety during the outage itself:
Prepare an Emergency Kit: Include flashlights, batteries, first aid supplies, non-perishable food, water, and blankets.
Charge Devices: Ensure fully charged phones, power banks, and other essential electronics.
Backup Power Source: Invest in a generator or alternative power source for critical appliances, such as medical devices or refrigeration.
Secure Property: Secure loose items outdoors, such as patio furniture, to prevent them from becoming hazards in high winds.
Trim Trees: Trim branches that could fall on power lines or property during storms.
Know How to Shut Off Utilities: Learn how to safely shut off gas, water, and electricity in emergencies.
Stay Informed: Monitor weather forecasts and stay updated on outage alerts from local authorities.
Maintain Communication: Establish a communication plan with family and neighbors, including a designated meeting spot in case of separation.
Stay Indoors: If a power outage occurs during extreme weather, stay indoors to avoid hazards like lightning or falling debris.
Conserve Resources: Minimize opening refrigerators and freezers to keep food cold longer and conserve water and battery power.
Have a Plan: Have a family emergency plan, including evacuation routes and designated meeting places.
