Before the storm hits and you face a power outage, be ready
Being ready can save you big money and a lot of stress.
(Columbia, MO, January 31, 2011) - As we all brace for the potential ice and snow storm that is forecasted to impact us in the next few days, it’s very important to be ready in the event a power outage hits your area.
Not only are they an inconvenience, but power outages can cause property damage and result in substantial monetary loss. To reduce your losses, State Farm offers the following tips:
During an outage residents should:
- Turn off or disconnect any appliances, equipment or electronics that were on when the power went out. When power comes back on, it may come back with momentary “surges” or “spikes” that can damage equipment such as computers and motors in appliances like the air conditioner, refrigerator, washer or furnace. Leave one light on so you know when the power returns.
- Never use candles for emergency lighting, use flashlights. Have fresh batteries on hand.
- Use generators safely. If you have a portable generator, only run it outdoors with adequate ventilation. Never use a generator indoors or in attached garages. The exhaust fumes contain carbon monoxide which can be deadly if inhaled.
- Listen to the radio for updates. Have fresh batteries on hand.
- Avoid opening the refrigerator and freezer. This will help keep your food as fresh as possible. You can also add ice to prolong the items. If you must eat food that was refrigerated or frozen, check it carefully for signs of spoilage.
Contact
Jim Camoriano, State Farm Insurance at (573) 499-2452.
About State Farm®
State Farm insures more cars and homes than any other insurer in the United States. Our 17,800 agents and more than 66,000 employees serve 81 million policies and accounts - more than 79 million auto, fire, life and health policies in the United States and Canada, and nearly 2 million bank accounts. State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company is the parent of the State Farm family of companies. State Farm is ranked No. 34 on the Fortune 500 list of largest companies.
