By Sophia Gerni crime, safety, and justice reporter
The New River Valley has experienced many power outages due to Winter Storm Harlow. With falling trees, power lines down, and high gusts of wind, many realized they were unprepared. And with the potential threat of winter weather ongoing, it is never too late to begin preparing.
Why it matters: People often underestimate the importance of preparation for power outages, especially when the temperatures drop below freezing. It is important that people prepare, just in case it happens again.
- “ I wasn’t prepared, not at all,” said Clemie Cahir, a student at Virginia Tech. “If I took anything away from my experience, it was that I should probably have a safety kit ready for if the power goes out again.”
The big picture: Appalachian Power has provided continuous updates within the New River Valley as they work to repair the damages caused by Winter Storm Harlow. Appalachian Power also provided a list of essential items to have in preparation for the next time there might be a major storm.
- Flashlights and Fresh Batteries
- Candles, matches, or lighters
- Portable heater, oil or gas
- Battery-powered radio or televisions
- Important over-the-counter medicines
- Camping equipment, such as sleeping bags, camp stoves, and lanterns
Yes, but: We can’t always rely on our phones during power outages. Using your phone’s flashlight for extended periods of time can drain the battery quickly. If there is no portable charger, your phone will not be able to recharge.
- “We had our phones’ flashlights, but our phones were dying very quickly,” Cahir said. “I never thought about getting a flashlight. Honestly, I just relied on my phone, but after that I am going to get one for sure.”
- Having a portable phone charger prepared at all times could be beneficial in many situations. This could help to stay in touch with loved ones, having the ability to receive updates on the situation, and a way to call for help if something becomes a serious emergency.
Zoom in: About 37,000 people lost power starting Wednesday morning and continuing into the night. Without knowledge and preparation, perishable food spoils quickly. It is important to know how long frozen and refrigerated food can last without power.
- Renee Boyer, head of Virginia Tech’s Food Science and Technology department understands that dealing with food during a power outage can be frustrating. She offers some tips on what to do and things to look for if this situation shall occur.
- “As soon as the power goes out, the big recommendation is to not open the freezer or refrigerator doors. As long as you keep those doors shut, the food will last longer,” Boyer said. “If the power is out and you can keep the refrigerator closed, it can actually last four to six hours and be relatively safe.”
- “In terms of your food in your refrigerator, if that food gets down to room temperature then that food should be discarded,” Boyer said. “The issue with refrigerated foods is that a lot of those foods are considered TCS foods (Time and temperature controlled foods for safety). If there are bacteria or pathogens in that food, if the food doesn’t stay cold then the bacteria can reproduce and reproduce to high enough levels that it can make you sick.”
- “This time when the power went out it was cold outside. If it is below 40 degrees outside, you can actually take food from your refrigerator and leave it outside. This will make it last longer,” Boyer said.
The next time there is a power outage, it is important to have to have the essentials on hand and a clear understanding of food safety when lights go out.
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