Whether your Lodge loses power for one day or one week, it is important to prepare your Lodge for a power outage. Whether caused by ice, snow or thunderstorms, a power outage may cause food spoilage, prevent the use of medical devices and disrupt water and communications.

How to Prepare in Advance

• Always have an emergency kit with water, non-perishable food, emergency contact information and more. Also consider how those supplies change if members are stuck at the Lodge.
• Consider purchasing a generator to power essential equipment like Lodge fridges and freezers. Ensure multiple Lodge member should know how to safely operate it.
• Make a disaster plan, including how to respond in the event of an outage and members will be notified of delays.
• Ensure your Lodge has carbon monoxide detectors with battery backup.

What to do During a Power Outage

• Keep Lodge fridges and freezers closed.
• Food stays good in the fridge for 4 hours. Once 4 hours hit, place perishables in coolers with ice.
• Stay away from windows and stay indoors.
• If safe, go to another location for heat or cooling. For mass outages, local authorities will open relief centers.
• Unplug appliances, equipment or electronics to prevent damage from surges.
• Only use generators outdoors and follow the manual.
• Leave one light turned on so you’ll know when the power comes back.

Steps to Take after a Power Outage

• Discard food if fridge temperatures drop below 40 degrees.
• If food in the freezer is colder than 40 degrees and has ice crystals on it, it is able to be refrozen.
• If the power is out for more than a day, discard any medication that should be refrigerated, unless the drug’s label says otherwise. Consult a doctor or pharmacist with questions.
• Clear any downed limbs or hire someone to do the work.

It always pays to be prepared to protect your Lodge. Read more risk management tips here.