While MLGW has been improving its power system, power outages are still possible in most areas of the city.
Even though many Memphians have dealt with their fair share of power outages, things may work a little different for winter power outages compared to summer ones. Temperatures can nosedive indoors when the power is knocked out in the winter which can endanger lives.
Here’s how to prepare for a winter power outage and what to do if one happens.
What to do before the power goes out in winter:
Before a power outage occurs, take these steps to help handle a winter storm if the power gets knocked out:
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Set the refrigerator and freezer to the coldest settings.
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Make sure flashlights and portable radios work and that batteries are stocked.
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Fully charge electronics including cell phones, tablets, laptops and portable chargers.
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Get out extra blankets, coats, hats and mittens.
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Check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to make sure they are working and have fresh batteries.
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Have an emergency heating source or fuel such as a gas or wood burning fireplace or a wood burning stove. Make sure the room used is well ventilated.
How to stay warm if the power goes out in winter:
When power goes out in a winter storm, it is imperative to maintain whatever heat is leftover in your home from before the loss of power. This can be done by keeping doors to the outside shut, closing doors to unused rooms, dressing in layers, using towels to block drafts coming in from window and door cracks or running hot water in a bathtub.
Michigan’s winter power outage tips page recommends you make sure to wear a hat as most body heat is lost through the head. They also recommend, covering your mouth to protect your lungs; dressing in layers of loose fitting, light-weight warm clothing; and wearing outer garments that are tightly woven and water repellent.
Disconnect appliances and electronics to avoid an electrical surge when power is restored. If using a generator, make sure it is done so outdoors and away from windows to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Do not use a gas stove or oven to heat the home as it can lead to carbon monoxide leaking as well.
What are symptoms of frostbite, hypothermia?
According to the Centers for Disease Control, the people most at risk for hypothermia and frostbite are older adults, people outdoors for too long, people who drink alcohol in excess or use illicit drugs, and small children.
For both illnesses, medical attention should be sought immediately. If unavailable or while waiting for help, get the person into a warm room or shelter, remove any wet clothing, warm them under layers of dry clothing and blankets, place areas affected in warm, not hot, water.
Someone with frostbite may not be aware of it as the skin affected is numb. Signs of frostbite include redness or pain in any skin area, a white or grayish-yellow skin area, skin that feels unusually firm or waxy, and numbness.
Hypothermia often occurs when exposed to very cold temperatures. Symptoms of hypothermia include shivering, exhaustion, confusion, fumbling hands, memory loss, slurred speech and drowsiness. In infants, symptoms can include bright red, cold skin and very low energy.
Memphis power outage map
This article originally appeared on Memphis Commercial Appeal: Power outage during Memphis’ winter storm? Here’s how to stay warm