Winter weather in Atlanta: What to do if the power goes out?

ATLANTA – Georgia residents are bracing for a winter storm that is expected to bring snow, sleet and freezing rain later this week. Meteorologists are warning of possible power outages that could disrupt daily life and threaten safety, prompting officials to urge residents to take precautionary measures.

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Although many homes in Georgia rely on natural gas for heating, a power outage can still cause significant problems.

Preparing for possible power outages

To minimize the impact of power outages, residents are encouraged to take the following steps:

• Put together an emergency kit: Stock up on at least a three-day supply of nonperishable food, water, medications, flashlights, batteries, and a manual can opener. These key points can make a significant difference if power restoration is delayed.

• Improve your home’s insulation: Inspect homes for drafts and close gaps to retain heat. Insulating pipes can also prevent them from freezing and bursting, reducing the risk of water damage.

• Provide alternative heating: Prepare safe options such as fireplaces or wood stoves. If they have not been recently cleaned or inspected, this should be a priority. To avoid carbon monoxide poisoning, generators should be placed outdoors and away from windows.

How to stay safe during power outages

During power outages, residents are advised to follow the following safety precautions:

• Save heat: Keep doors and windows closed to maintain warmth indoors. Wear layers of clothing and use blankets to keep you comfortable.

• Protect food: Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed to store food. A fully equipped freezer can safely store food for up to 48 hours without electricity.

• Stay informed: Monitor weather updates via the FOX 5 Storm Team app and power restoration efforts via reliable sources. Georgia Power’s Outage & Storm Center and Georgia EMC’s Outage page provide real-time information.

• Find warming shelters: During extended outages, some communities may open warming shelters to protect against the cold. FOX 5 will provide a list of suspensions received as well as the most recent closures on the website.

Officials stress the importance of preparation as the storm approaches.

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MORE TIPS FOR PREPARING FOR WINTER WEATHER:

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