Even though the storm first forecast for next week has changed its path, batteries in home essentials should be checked NOW before an emergency arises.
Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors should be checked and, if in doubt, replace the batteries now. Do the same with other home essentials such as radios, flashlights, etc. Make sure to have a car charger for your cell phones to get updates (like this one) during a power outage. Please remember to dispose of old batteries properly at recycling drop offs.
If you don't have a "smart phone", consider getting one so that you can have access to the internet during an emergency. If you don't have one, work into your family emergency plan a means to get updates from friends or family who do have one.
If this recent crisis made a generator purchase a priority for you, work on that before another emergency creates a rush. Make sure to follow all safety directions when installing and using a generator, getting help if you need it. It's better to ask for help with an unfamiliar installation than to create a danger by doing it improperly.
Use the pleasant weather this weekend to your family's advantage by working on these simple measures to protect them during future emergencies.
