Tips for Weathering Power Outages

In anticipation of the next weather front moving in today, the city of Corvallis offered tips for weathering power outages (from a City of Corvallis press release:

In anticipation of high winds this afternoon, Public Safety personnel are reminding local residents to stock up on essential supplies in case of power outages. Falling trees may take out powerlines, causing outages.

Residents should be prepared for this to occur tonight. It is recommended to keep a five-day supply of water and nonperishable food items that are compact, lightweight and nutritional, taking into account the family’s tastes and unique needs. Select foods that require no refrigeration, preparation or cooking and little or no water. Foods that are high in calories and nutrition should be included. Preparation kits also should include flashlights, light sticks, candles, extra batteries and battery-powered radios.

If the power goes out, people should take the following steps:

 Check the fuse or breaker box.
 Call the utility company.
 Turn off all electrical equipment.
 Turn on a porch light and one inside light so utility crews know when service is restored.
 Listen to the radio for updates.

NEVER touch a downed powerline and expect every line to be live. If a line is touching someone, stay away. You cannot help. Call 911 for emergency assistance. If a powerline falls across your vehicle, do not get out. Wait for assistance to arrive.

A complete listing of current road conditions in Corvallis and Benton County can be located by high water and flooding. The current list of high water locations can be found by going to the City of Corvallis website at www.ci.corvallis.or.us/hazards or the Benton County Public Works Site www.co.benton.or.us/pw/index.php. Residents can also call a Benton County Public Works information line at 541-766-6821 to report problems. An information line at 541-766-6120 is available to residents of the city and county to call for updated information regarding flooding, road closures, and travel restrictions.

All public safety entities in Corvallis and Benton County would like to remind drivers to exercise caution driving on the streets and highways in Corvallis and Benton County. Be on the look-out for police officers and flaggers directing traffic in the area, especially in the hours of darkness. Do not drive into standing water since it is difficult to gauge the depth, and vehicles can be swept away in less than 2 feet of water.