With the forecasted storm this weekend here are some helpful tips so you are prepared in case you lose power or are shut in!At home – most households do not have generators and there is the potential of power outages. If you have an outage, unplug the non-essential items in your home and be sure all switched lights are in the off position. This will help with any surges when the power returns.• Meal prep Have shelf stable protein such as canned tuna and protein bars Keep different water supplies fill water bottles, pitchers with water for drinking and buckets/pots for washing up. Have some sweets on hand, make brownies or cookies before the storm hits!• Stock up on paper plates and utensils, if there isn’t water you can’t wash dishes!• Charge your electronics! Phones, tablets, laptops, portable chargers. Some LED lights are usb rechargeable, don’t forget about them!• Batteries for radios and flashlights do you have backups?• Candles be sure to have matches or a lighter. • Have medications ready this includes OTC’s and prescriptions. • Do you have cards, board games, or books/magazines to occupy your time?• Keep exterior wall cabinet doors with plumbing cracked so pipes don’t freeze.• Space heaters: Use electric space heaters with automatic shut-off switches and non-glowing elements. Keep heat sources, like space heaters, at least 3 feet away from drapes, furniture, bedding, or other flammable materials. Never cover your space heater. Never place a space heater on top of furniture or near water. Never leave children unattended near a space heater. Make sure that the cord of an electric space heater is not a tripping hazard, but do not run the cord under carpets or rugs. Avoid using extension cords to plug in your space heater. If your space heater has a damaged electrical cord or produces sparks, do not use it• Do laundry before the storm hits! • Conserve heat by closing off unneeded rooms, block drafts with towels, close drapes or cover windows.• Be a good neighbor and check in on the elderly! • If you have to go out dress in layers and keep water bottles in a cooler (so it wont freeze!) and a blanket in your car. ... MoreLess