Batteries, generators and coolers useful for outlasting power outages

Power outages can happen at any time - even in places that rarely have outages.

If a power outage occurred in your home, lasting more than a few hours, would you be prepared?

On your next trip to the store, make sure you have all the essentials necessary to get through a power outage.

• Always have extra batteries around the house for flashlights, radios, and alarm clocks.

• If using a generator, read the instructions for use before a storm and always keep it outdoors to avoid combustion or carbon monoxide gases.

• Have at least one phone in the house that is not cordless and does not use electricity, so you can continue making calls in case of emergency.

• Take time to weatherstrip the doors and windows to help keep heat in until the electricity comes back on. This will help keep the heat in - or out.

• Have a cooler nearby that can be used to store food which may otherwise spoil if the electricity stays off for too long.

If the power is off for just a few hours, food in the refrigerator will be all right if the doors are kept shut and you reduce the amount of cold air you let out.