WTOP/Kristi King
WTOP/Kristi King
WASHINGTON — Now is the time to prepare for potentially dangerous summer storms and review what to do.
Severe storms in the D.C. metro area in recent years are real-life examples that wide-spread power outages can make it nearly impossible to find necessary supplies. Every homeowner might not feel the need to own a power generator. But flashlights and a battery-powered radio will serve most homes well.
Items power companies suggest for an emergency storm kit include:
- Batteries
- First aid kit
- Bottled water
- Cellphone chargers
- Non-perishable food with can opener
- Prescription medications and glasses
- Flash lights and battery-powered or hand-crank radio
- Phone numbers or contact information to report a power outage
- Landline phone with a cord because cordless phones require power
Before a storm strikes, remember to:
- Print out contact information and phone numbers to power company.
- Update contact information with power company.
- Charge cell phones and lap tops.
- Fill up vehicle gas tanks.
- Make sure prescription medications are filled.
- Fill bathtub with water if supply relies on power.
- Unplug or turn off major appliances and electronics.
Power companies need customers to report outages. The Pepco self-service app for iPhone
