IEC: Preparing for Winter Storms

Winter in Indiana can leave you stuck at home for days without power. It’s never too early to plan and prepare your home for winter weather.

Shutterstock photo.

INDIANAPOLIS - Each season brings new opportunities and new weather concerns for Hoosiers. A winter day in Indiana can bring heavy snow, freezing rain, ice storms and strong winds. These forms of winter weather can create electrical hazards, warns Jon Elkins, vice president for safety, training, and compliance for Indiana Electric Cooperatives.

“During winter, when snow and ice accumulation on power lines may cause them to snap or lead to poles breaking,” said Elkins. “People need to be particularly mindful of the dangers of live power lines.”

If you lose power
During a winter storm, you may find yourself without power at home. If so, try to keep warm air in and cool air out by not opening doors to unused rooms and only opening doors to the outdoors if absolutely necessary.

It’s helpful to have winter storm safety kits for your home and vehicle. You never know when you might be stuck at home for days, possibly some of that time without power.

For your at-home safety kit, you will want at least two weeks of supplies, including:

• Bottled water
• Non-perishable food
• Emergency blankets
• First aid kit/medicine
• Flashlights
• Battery-operated or hand-crank radio
• Extra batteries
• Toiletries