Memphis weather: What to do if your power goes out, how to report it to MLGW
The first major winter storm of 2024 will be in Memphis sooner than you know it. Temperatures in Memphis could drop into the single digits during the storm, and combined with strong winds and precipitation, it could mean some power outages in the area.
Memphis Light, Gas and Water told customers that they are prepared for the upcoming severe winter weather with crews ready on standby to work around the clock for weather-related damages.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency and Ready.gov, a national public service campaign to educate and prepare citizens for emergencies, have published information and resources on how to handle possible power outages and how to stay safe during the outages.
What to do when the power goes out
If the power goes out, MLGW asks customers to report the outage to them by calling their service line at 901-544-6500 or making a report online or through their app.
As for safety measures, Ready.gov, recommends following these measures:
Keep your refrigerators and freezers cold to avoid food waste due to lack of power. If you have medication that requires refrigeration, have an alternative plan;
If you have a generator, use it outside and away from windows;
Do not use gas stoves or ovens to heat your home;
Unplug all appliances and electronics to avoid damage from electrical surges;
Check with local officials to see if there are warming centers open.
Try to be prepared for a power outage by keeping an inventory of the items that you need that require electricity, storing batteries and keeping portable chargers charged to power electronics. Make sure that there is a flashlight for every household member in the event of a power outage.
More: What to know about the Hospitality Hub emergency overnight shelter in Memphis
How to stay warm during a power outage
Keeping the heat that is inside your home is important during a power outage. Having window coverings like curtains open during the day allows the sun's heat in to warm your home.
Try to close doors to rooms you are not using currently as well as vents to keep the heat in your home. Placing rolled towels at the bottom of doors can keep drafts out. Staying away from large windows as they let the cold in is another way to keep warm.
Bundling up is also a great way to stay warm in the winter during a power outage.
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Fire safety during a power outage
When the power goes out, many might turn to their fireplace to heat their home. But, according to FEMA, there is an increase in fire deaths and injuries during the winter months.
Making sure you are using your fireplace or space heaters safely is very important as they can easily cause fires.
Keep blankets and anything that can burn at least 3 feet away from heat sources;
Have working smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors on every level of the home including basements and bedrooms;
Develop a fire escape plan for your household that everyone knows in the event of a fire. If you live in a multi-story building, learn your building’s emergency plan. Knowing and practicing both plans will help you get to safety quickly.
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How to report a power outage to MLGW
MLGW has an outage map on its website where customers can see information about power outages in their area. Customers can also report outages through the MLGW app, on their website or by calling (901) 544-6500.
Brooke Muckerman covers Shelby County Government for The Commercial Appeal. She can be reached at (901) 484-6225, brooke.muckerman@commercialappeal.com and followed on X, formerly known as Twitter @BrookeMuckerman.
This article originally appeared on Memphis Commercial Appeal: Memphis power outage: What to do and how to report it to MLGW
