If the power goes out during a winter weather event in Bethlehem, PA, it is vital you are prepared for the long haul. The Saucon Insurance Agency recommends you prepare an emergency kit to keep your family safe in the event of a prolonged power outage.

Stock Your Emergency Kit

Ready.gov recommends you include:

• A power source for phones and medical equipment
• Flashlights and extra batteries
• Rock salt, kitty litter, and a shovel
• Wood for a wood-burning stove or fireplace
• Space heater
• Generator with extra gas
• Extra blankets and clothing
• Water and food

Take Action

Keep a radio handy and contact the power company for estimates on the length of time the power will be out. Close doors or hang thick blankets to block off extra rooms in your house. Family members should gather in a room with a well-ventilated heat source. Each family member should put on additional layers of warm clothes as the temperature drops. You may prevent a water catastrophe by letting water trickle. Keep the refrigerator and freezer closed to preserve food. After about 4 hours, transfer food from the fridge to a cooler, or even a snow bank. As long as you don’t open it, food can last in the freezer for about two days.

Under ideal conditions, you should be able to stay warm and safe in your home for about a week. If it is clear your resources are dwindling, contact the authorities to determine the location of the nearest warming shelter. They will be able to guide you to the proper channels if you are unable to get out on your own. Saucon Insurance Agency encourages you to make a plan before severe winter weather strikes. Bethlehem, PA experiences its fair share of erratic winter weather. Our agents can offer guidance to help you keep your family safe in the event of a prolonged power outage.