Emergency Planning Winter Weather Tips

Akwesasne, NY - In the likelihood of future severe weather, the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe’s Emergency Planning Office is encouraging local residents to utilize this time to take precaution and help minimize dangers.

If you lose electrical service during the winter, follow these tips:

--Call your utility company first to report or determine you area’s repair schedule.

--Be sure to turn off or unplug lights and appliances to prevent a circuit overload when service is restored.

--Leave one light on to indicate power has been restored.

Protect yourself from carbon monoxide poisoning:

--DO NOT operate generators indoors; the motor emits deadly carbon monoxide gas.

--DO NOT use charcoal to cook indoors. It, too, can cause a buildup of carbon monoxide gas.

--DO NOT use your gas oven to heat your home -- prolonged use of an open oven in a closed house can create carbon monoxide gas.

--Make sure fuel space heaters are used with proper ventilation.

--To help prevent freezing pipes, turn on faucets slightly. Running water will not freeze as quickly.

--Ensure you have sufficient heating fuel, as well as emergency heating equipment in case you lose electricity.

--Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible to help reduce food spoilage.

--Make sure you always have a well-stocked Winter Home Emergency Supply Kit that includes flashlights, portable radio, extra batteries, a first aid kit, bottled water, non-perishable food and a manual can opener.

If you have any problems or concerns during a power outage, please call Tribal Dispatch at (518) 358-9200 and please listen to CKON Radio and check Facebook, Twitter and Indian Time Newspaper for more helpful tips from the Emergency Planning Office.