Strong winds on Tuesday caused widespread power outages, affecting thousands of customers in Seattle and its surrounding areas, according to utility outage trackers. By 10 p.m., regional electric utilities reported significant disruption in service across various neighborhoods.
As the region braces for another storm accompanied by heavy rain, which raises concerns about further flooding, it’s crucial for residents to prepare for potential outages. The Washington State Department of Health provides vital tips on how to stay safe before and during an outage.
Before a power outage occurs, it’s advisable to register any life-sustaining medical equipment with the utility company. Purchasing a generator can be a helpful precaution; however, proper installation is key—generators should be placed outside, and their cords brought indoors. Consumers are warned against connecting generators directly to main service panels due to the risk of backfeeding, which can be hazardous. Moreover, keeping a carbon monoxide detector indoors is imperative for safety.
A well-stocked disaster preparedness kit is essential. This kit should include items such as flashlights, light sticks, a battery-powered radio, extra batteries, and a wind-up clock. Additionally, residents should have a corded telephone since cordless models will not function during outages, and a safe alternative heating source with adequate fuel is crucial. It is important to remember that burning charcoal or using a generator indoors poses serious health risks.
During an outage, households are advised to switch off lights and most electrical appliances, except for the refrigerator and freezer, to prevent overload. Keeping one lamp switched on can help indicate when power has been restored. Residents must also conserve water, especially those reliant on well systems, and avoid using indoor gas appliances for heating due to carbon monoxide risks. Battery-operated flashlights are a safer lighting option than candles, which can ignite fires.
Food safety is another major concern when the power goes out. Residents should prioritize consuming perishable items first and keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed to preserve food quality. A fully loaded freezer can keep items frozen for up to two days. To keep food cold, ice chests can be utilized, and dry ice may be considered, though it should never be handled with bare hands.
Furthermore, it’s crucial to exercise extreme caution around downed power lines, which can still carry electricity and pose life-threatening hazards. Residents are urged to stay at least 30 feet away and report any downed lines to their utility company. For emergency situations involving downed lines that may cause fires or pose immediate threats, calling 911 is advised.
As the Pacific Northwest prepares for potential severe weather impacts, staying informed through local news and weather updates is vital. Residents can stay connected with the latest developments by downloading local news apps and following updates on various social media platforms.