February is Disaster Preparedness Month

Don’t be left in the Dark!

Having the right supplies on hand can make life a little easier during a power outage, flood, or storm. Even though it is unlikely that an emergency would prevent you from getting to the grocery store for long, you should prepare a reserve supply of food and other supplies that will last three to seven days. This can relieve a great deal of inconvenience and uncertainty until services are restored. Be prepared for whatever Mother Nature sends your way.

If the power has gone off or a storm is raging outside, there are things that you and your family must do to stay safe. You may want to consider getting a generator that can provide enough power to run your furnace and your sump pump during an extended power outage. Another reason to consider a generator is to run essential medical equipment or just to keep your refrigerator and freezer running when the power is out. Whatever the situation, it is important to size the unit correctly and follow the manufacturer's recommendations for its safe operation. This basic information will help you get through the emergency.

Generator Safety

• Consult with a licensed electrician if you decide to connect a generator to your existing household wiring system and install all recommended safety devices.
• Notify your power company if you have a generator installed
• Never run a generator inside your home, basement or attached garage. Generators should only be operated outside. Carbon Monoxide in the generator’s fumes can build up and cause carbon monoxide poisoning, which can lead to death.
• Keep children away from generators at all times.
• Operate the generator in a dry, outdoor location, away from open windows.

• Fuel spilled on a hot generator can cause an explosion. If your generator has a detachable fuel tank, remove it before refilling. If this is not possible, shut off the generator and let it cool before refilling.
• Store gasoline away from the generator and not in your home. Keep gasoline in proper storage containers. Improper storage can cause explosions and or fires.
• Do not exceed the rated capacity of your generator. Overloading your generator can damage it and any appliances connected to it. Fire may result. Be sure to follow manufacture’s instructions.

The Grand Island Citizens Corp and CERT Team urge all citizens to plan ahead for emergencies. For additional information you can contact the following web sites; www.nyhealth.com, www.fema.gov, www.semo.state.ny.us, www.redcross.org, www.salvationarmyusa.org.

This article was prepared from booklets and literature from the above listed web sites.

Submitted by Nicole Gerber, Nancy Koch and Dick Crawford