Be Prepared for Unplanned Outages: Keep a Storm Kit Handy

• Flashlight with a supply of fresh batteries
• Battery operated radio
• Telephone that does not require electricity (Cordless phones do not operate during a power outage)
• Supply of water
• Supply of easy-to-prepare non-perishable food items like fruits, packaged snacks, juice and canned goods
• Manual can opener
• First Aid Kit

Holiday Lighting Safety Tips

• Only buy lights that are UL listed
• Before using, check all tree lights for frayed cords, loose connections and broken sockets
• Never use indoor lights outside
• Don’t let tree light bulbs touch needles and branches
• Keep your fresh tree watered
• Don’t overload sockets
• Turn off lights when you leave the house or go to bed
• Attach outdoor lights with hooks, not nails or tacks
• Don’t string outdoor lights when it’s wet outside
• Always plug outdoor lights into GFCI outlets only
• Tape all outdoor extension connections to keep water out

Electric Space Heater Safety Tips

• Select units that are in good working condition and that are UL listed
• Purchase a heater with a guard around the heating element
• Never use in a bathroom or near a sink
• Never use a heater to dry clothing or thaw pipes
• Never use an extension cord
• Never run the cord under rugs or carpeting
• Turn off heater when you go to bed or leave the room
• Place the heater on a level surface for stability
• Don’t place the heater where children might play near it or where people or pets might trip over or bump into it
• Remember the 3-foot safety zone. Keep all items and loose clothing at least 3-feet away from heater