Printer
TextNational Preparedness Month: Blackouts / Power Loss
The largest Blackout in U.S. history occurred on August 14, 2003, leaving roughly 50 million people without power. Blackouts can happen anywhere, and to anyone, so being prepared is important.
Here’s your daily tip for National Preparedness Month:
Whether a disruption in electrical power occurs from severe weather or from a malfunction of the power grid, some basic services will be unavailable.
If a blackout lasts more than 24 hours, pre-planning efforts will be crucial in survival.
- Always keep at least a half tank of gas in your car – most gas stations rely on electricity to power the pumps.
- Fill plastic containers with water and place the containers in the freezer – the chilled water will help keep food cold for several hours.
More information: Blackouts (Ready.gov)
For
questions and information, contact the Office of Emergency Management:
- Phone: 571-350-1000, TTY 711 / Fax: 571-350-1050 / E-Mail
- Register for Alerts
National Preparedness Month 2011
National Preparedness Month (NPM) is sponsored by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Ready Campaign. NPM is held each September and its goal is to:
-
Increase public awareness about the importance of preparing for
emergencies
- Encourage individuals to take action
September 2011 is the eighth annual NPM. The month will focus on important preparedness steps:
The Campaign’s Web sites (ready.gov and listo.gov ) and toll-free numbers (1-800-BE-READY and 1-888-SE-LISTO) provide Americans with free emergency preparedness informatio
Website Survey 