For those without power, many also have no heat.
They may be looking for ways to stay warm, but the Emergency Measures Organizations says there are things you should never do, including running generators in your home or in your garage. You should also never cook with an open flame in your home. This can create carbon monoxide, and that can prove to be fatal.
Never run generators or cook with an open flame, inside a home or the garage. #NBStorm
— NB-EMO / OMU-NB (@NBEMO_OMUNB) January 25, 2017
Spokesperson Paul Bradley says if you are in an area, where everyone is without power, ensure that everyone is safe, “Check in on the neighbours. Some people have different needs than others, and it’s great if you can lend a hand in any way you can.”
Residents are encouraged to check on their neighbours, particularly the elderly, to see if any assistance is required. #nbstorm
— NB-EMO / OMU-NB (@NBEMO_OMUNB) January 25, 2017
If you’re concerned about losing all of the food from your refrigerator or freezer, Bradley suggests keeping the door closed, “If you keep the door closed, a full freezer it will keep food frozen for 24 to 36 hours. When the power comes back on, these products, they can be refrozen if ice crystals are still present.”
Here’s a full list of tips:
o Customers still without power are reminded to turn down their heat sources and unplug major appliances in their home in advance of power restoration to avoid a surge in demand that has the potential to cause more outages. This is known as ‘cold load pickup.’ Heat sources and appliances can be gradually turned on following restoration.
o Residents should not approach downed power lines, or trees that are in contact with power lines.
o Never run generators or cook with an open flame, inside a home or the garage, as these activities create carbon monoxide which can become extremely dangerous. Never leave candles or lanterns unattended. Take a moment to test the batteries in your carbon monoxide detectors and smoke detectors.
o Food safety: If you have no power, do not open your freezer or fridge unless it is absolutely necessary. If the door remains closed, a full freezer will keep food frozen for 24 to 36 hours without electricity. These products can be refrozen if ice crystals are still present. All perishable food in a refrigerator without electricity for more than 24 hours should be discarded.
o New Brunswickers with any medical concerns who are affected by power outages are encouraged to call Tele-Care 811.
o Residents are reminded to prepare by having everything they need for at least 72 hours following a storm. This includes preparing an emergency kit for home and car, knowing what to do and how to stay safe during power outages.
o An emergency kit should include food, water, batteries, a battery-powered radio, first-aid supplies and any special items such as prescriptions, infant formula, and equipment for people with disabilities.
o In case of power outages, residents are encouraged to check on their neighbours, particularly the elderly, to see if any assistance is required.
