Stay safe during power outages; here's how

NEBRASKA -- Much of Nebraska is experiencing a mid-week, mid-spring temperatures blizzard.

The weather conditions have caused many Nebraskans to lose power. Here's how to stay safe until the power is restored.

Heartland United Way in Grand Island recommends calling their resource hotline, 2-1-1, to find resources; checking out FEMA.gov for how to protect yourself during an outage; and keeping an eye on Nebraska 511 before traveling. 

To stay safe during a power outage, FEMA.gov and Ready.gov say to:

• Keep freezers and refrigerators closed
• User generators outdoors, and at least 20 feet away from building openings
• Stay fire safe, and don't use a gas stove to heat your home
• Unplug appliances and electronics to avoid damage from electrical surges
• Make a plan for refrigerating medicines and powering medical devices
• If it's safe to do so, go to an alternate location for heating or cooling
• Keep phones and electronic equipment charged before an outage

NPPD PORTABLE GENERATOR SAFETY TIPS

Ready.gov also says to make sure to have enough nonperishable food and water. If you are unsure about the condition of refrigerated food following an outage, Ready.gov says to just throw it out. If the power is out for more than a day, any refrigerated medications should be discarded and you should contact your doctor or pharmacist for new medication.