Winter weather brings with it many concerns that we should prepare in advance for. Losing power is something that everyone should prepare in advance for. Snow, ice, and falling tree limbs can bring power lines down and cause power outages in some cases for days. When bad weather is forecast, there are things you should do to help prepare:
• Stay at least 50 feet away from down power lines. You don’t know if they are live or not.
• Make sure battery powered devices (cell phones, back up lights, etc.) are fully charged.
• Have a supply of non-perishable food and drink available so you don’t have to open refrigerators or freezers. Opening these up will let cold air out and cause food to spoil sooner.
• Put fresh batteries in flashlights and have spares available.
• Do not use candles for light as they pose a serious fire hazard in these conditions.
• Do not use stoves for gas grills for heat as they create hazardous conditions.
• If you do lose power notify PECO immediately at 1-800-841-4141. It’s important for PECO to know how many people are out of power. You can also report outages online with PECO at https://secure.peco.com/powerOutages/accountVerification.
• PECO also has a power outage tracker map that you can see all the reported power outages and track restoration status https://www.peco.com/outages/experiencing-an-outage/outage-map.
• If you have a portable generator follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safe operations. Do Not use them indoors or inside a garage. Run them at least 25 feet from your home and away from any vents to help prevent dangerous carbon dioxide from entering your home.
More information on power outage preparation can be found on PECO’s web site https://www.peco.com/outages/preparing-for-an-outage/outage-readiness-and-safety, and from FEMA https://www.ready.gov/power-outages.

Be prepared and stay safe!