What’s your plan if you lose power? Here’s what not to do Staying safe during a power outage depends on actions you take—and actions you don’t. Rodney Oddoye, chief operating officer of Pepco Holdings, warned that downed power lines pose serious risks. “If anyone sees any downed wire, stay away from it and call us,” he said, emphasizing the importance of keeping a safe distance. Pepco’s emergency number is 1-877-737-2662, and customers in Northern Virginia should contact Dominion Energy or NOVEC depending on their location. When lighting is needed, flashlights are the safest option. Oddoye discouraged the use of candles due to the fire hazard they pose. Portable generators should also be avoided unless used outdoors and placed at least 20 feet away from buildings, as carbon monoxide poisoning is a significant risk. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) advises against using gas stoves or ovens to heat homes during outages, as this can lead to dangerous conditions. Food safety is another critical concern. The refrigerator and freezer will maintain cold temperatures for about four hours without power, but perishable items should be discarded if they warm to 40 degrees Fahrenheit for two or more hours. FEMA recommends throwing out any food that looks, smells, or tastes unusual after an outage, even if it hasn’t reached unsafe temperatures. These precautions highlight the importance of preparedness during power disruptions. By avoiding common mistakes and following expert guidance, individuals can minimize risks and ensure their safety during extended outages.#rodney_oddoye #pepco_holdings #dominion_energy #novec #fema
