What you need to know before the ice/snow storm

Today should be pretty calm with just some rain, but its a good time to go through the following checklist so you’re ready for the upcoming storm:

Be Aware

Know where you’re going to get severe weather information. If the power goes out, you may not be able to watch or listen to local tv stations. Do you have a battery-operated NOAA weather radio or AM/FM radio? Make sure your cell phone is fully charged so you can use it to access weather information. Make sure you have a cell phone car charger or external battery pack so you can use your phone if the phone battery dies.

Make sure your friends and neighbors know that there’s a storm coming. The elderly or disabled may not be as aware as you are. While you don’t want to frighten them, do make sure they understand that power outages are a real possibility with this storm.

Kentucky Utilities and Blue Grass Energy are the electric providers for Fayette County. Both of them have websites the show the status of power outages. Kentucky Utilities Blue Grass Energy

Click here for more about being aware before the storm hits

Make A Plan

Talk now and discuss what to do if the power went out in your home overnight. How long can you stay in your home if your electricity goes out? Where will you go? If you can’t get out due to icy roads, how will you stay warm? If you have a fireplace, you may want to bring in dry firewood or make sure the gas insert is working correctly. Where are those extra blankets and sleeping bags? Do you have flashlights or battery powered lanterns? DO NOT USE CANDLES AS A HEATING/LIGHT SOURCE DURING A POWER OUTAGE! THEY ARE A FIRE HAZARD.

If you take prescription medicines, make sure you have 3-5 days supply on hand in case you can’t get out.

If you have pets, plan for them as well. Make sure you have food and other supplies for them.

Click here for more about planning for emergencies

Build a Kit

You need water, food, hygiene and safety supplies for at least three days. Click here for the complete list

Get Involved

Check on your neighbors and see how you can work together during an emergency. You may have special skills that would be helpful in case of an emergency. So do your neighbors. If you plan ahead and work together, weathering the storm will be easier for everyone. After the storm, consider taking a first aid refresher course or CPR. Get involved with the Division of Emergency Management by becoming a member of our Community Emergency Response Team.