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Forming a Backup Power Plan

For most of us, being without power is an inconvenience, and though the situation may be unpleasant, we weather it in good humor.

For others it’s a much more serious matter.

Members who rely on electricity to power medical equipment should develop a back-up power plan. That may mean a friend or family member on a different circuit who can offer you refuge until your power is restored. It may mean making arrangements with a nearby medical center.

Or it could mean purchasing a backup energy source—a generator.

While most generators are simple to use, as with all things electrical, you need to be safety conscious. That means installing a double-throw switch to cut off your home from Southwestern Electric’s distribution system when your generator is in use. “Without a double-throw switch, you risk backfeeding power into Southwestern Electric’s distribution system—and that can get someone killed,” said Sandy Nevinger, director of member services and public relations.

Nevinger pointed out that members using portable generators should also take measures to protect themselves from carbon monoxide. “Generators use combustion engines, and combustion engines produce carbon monoxide. So you want to make sure that your generator is outside of your home, not in your garage or barn, and sitting in a well-ventilated area,” she said.

Cordless phones also pose problems during power outages. Unlike traditional, cord-connected telephones, cordless phones are inoperable during a power outage. “It’s always a good idea to have a cellular phone and at least one old-fashioned phone with a cord somewhere in the house,” Nevinger said. “Even if you pack it away in a closet with your storm supplies and only pull it out during an outage, at least you know it’s there when you need it.”

Which points to a final storm-related point. Electric pumps mounted to wells also fail to function without power. “That’s why it’s so important to store extra water as part of your disaster survival kit,” Nevinger said. Other storm survival kit items are listed below.

 DISASTER SUPPLY KIT ITEMS

● A three-day supply of water (one gallon per person per day) and food that won’t spoil.

● One change of clothing and footwear per family member.

● One blanket or sleeping bag per family member.

● A first aid kit, including prescription medicines.

● Emergency tools, including a battery-powered NOAA weather radio and portable radio, flashlight, and plenty of extra batteries.

● An extra set of car keys, a credit card and cash.

● Special items for infant, elderly or disabled family members.

● Telephone numbers for medical emergencies, law enforcement, family members and friends who may be able to offer assistance.

● Southwestern Electric Cooperative’s telephone numbers — (800) 637-8667 and (618) 664-1025 — and your account number.