Politics & Government
The Power Struggle: What To Do If Your Power Goes Out
Patch talked to the Takoma Park Police to see what you should do if you find yourself without electricity.
Takoma Park Police Capt. Ed Coursey offers these recommendations to area residents should their power goes out this winter:
1. Hunker down. Have flashlights and warm clothes at the ready, and stock up on at least three days’ worth of water and food.
2. Shut your water off. Otherwise it may freeze inside your pipes, damaging them. Afterward, run the faucets to get rid of any excess water in the pipes.
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3. Have an escape plan. In cold weather, it takes as little as 48 hours before the temperature of a house hits 30 degrees. At that point, you and your family should leave. Plan where you might go in advance.
4. Be familiar with your utilities. If you have a gas water heater, for instance, you’ll be able to take a hot shower even if the power’s out. Know what you’re dealing with.
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5. Stay inside, while you can. Only leave your house if you have to. Every time you open the front door, heat escapes.
Editor's Note: This post is a part of a larger series on Pepco's progress on its reliability and Montgomery County's move for a public power option. To read more of this series, check out The Power Struggle.
