Tips to stay safe when the power goes out

MAINE (WABI) – Thursday’s post-Thanksgiving storm brought rain and heavy, wet snow to the region, leaving icy roads and thousands of people without power.

Maine is no stranger to winter storms or power outages, but as we head into the first storm of the 2024-2025 season, here are a few tips to keep you safe if your power goes out.

When using an emergency heating source such as a wood stove, fireplace or kerosene heater, keep fuels away from flames and be sure to properly ventilate.

Never use a grill or camping stove indoors. They may emit dangerous gases.

Keep refrigerators and freezers closed as much as possible. Most foods will last 24 hours or longer if you minimize opening refrigerator and freezer doors.

Turn off or unplug major appliances to prevent overloading circuits when power is restored.

If you’re running a generator for power, the Maine Emergency Management Agency offers the following tips.

Never use a generator inside homes, garages, basements, sheds, or similar areas, even when using a fan or opening doors and windows for ventilation.

Lethal levels of carbon monoxide can build up quickly in these areas and persist for hours even after the generator has been turned off.

Follow the instructions that came with your generator.

Position the unit outdoors and at least 5 feet away from doors, windows and vents that could allow CO into the air.

Make sure the generator exhaust is directed away from doors, windows and vents.

Install battery-powered CO alarms or battery-powered plug-in CO alarms in your home according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

CO alarms must be certified according to the requirements of the latest safety standards (UL 2034, IAS 6-96 or CSA 6.19.01).

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