By Shelley Shockley
The City of Cleveland is known for cold and icy winters, are you ready for the next batch of unpleasant winter weather? To help you prepare we have gathered some tips to keep safe and warm.
Do you have a “Go Bag”?
This is something you should have ready for all emergencies:
- Make sure you have flashlights, a battery-powered radio and extra batteries in case of an interruption of power.
- Charge cell phones, tablets, and laptops so that you can stay connected in the event of an outage. Also, charge your chargers for extra power.
- Gather blankets, sleeping bags and extra clothing to keep everyone comfortable.
- Keep non-perishable snacks and food that does not require cooking handy.
- Stock up on bottled water.
- Keep a cooler handy with ice packs and/or ice to keep perishable items cold in case of an outage.
- Unplug and avoid using major electric appliances
When ice and heavy snow accumulate on power lines and tree limbs this could result in power outages. Below are tips to keep you safe during storms:
- Downed power lines – Never touch, move or go near any downed or hanging lines. The first action should be to call 9-1-1 or your local utility. CPP’s Trouble Line can be reached by calling 216-664-3156.
- Do not put your feet in water where a downed line is laying
- Do not try to move tree limbs
- If you see someone who has come into contact with a downed line, do not touch them, again call 9-1-1
- If a line comes down on your car stay inside, roll down your window and warn others to stay away. Call authorities or ask a passerby to call authorities. The only time you should exit a vehicle with a downed line on it is if it has caught fire. If the vehicle is on fire, open the door and jump with both feet together to avoid contact with the car. It is metal and therefore you could receive a shock.
- If there is an outage, unplug and avoid using major electric appliances and avoid using landline telephones. You should also avoid using the telephone because in the event of a lightning strike these lines and other wires can conduct electricity. Stay away from downed power lines