BE PREPARED BEFORE A POWER OUTAGE:

• Subscribe to text alert services to stay informed of local weather conditions. Text your zip code to 888777.
• Keep trees trimmed. We will trim tree branches that could impact power lines free of charge.
• Pick up and secure loose items.
• Check if your elderly or low-mobility neighbors will need help getting to a safe space in the event of a storm.
• Talk to your medical provider about a power outage plan for medical devices powered by electricity and refrigerated medicines. Find out how long medications can be stored at higher temperatures and get specific guidance for any medications that are critical for life!
• Everyone should have a three-day supply of water available for use in emergencies. One to 3 gallons, per person, per day, is recommended.
• Have flashlights and extra batteries available in multiple rooms/areas
• Have a car charger available for your cell phone, or consider purchasing a solar-powered recharger.
• Test generators and stock-up on fuel. Never run a generator in an enclosed space or indoors.
• For additional tips, visit the MU website.

IF YOUR POWER IS OUT IN MARSHFIELD, HERE’S WHAT TO DO:

• Communicate outages and downed power lines with your power company. During office hours, MU customers can call 715-387-1195. After hours, the emergency number is 715-384-8515.
• Check breakers first! Also report if you know neighbors are without power.
• Avoid downed power lines! Stay inside your car if a power line falls on your car and call for help.
• If the outage lasts more than a couple of hours, place milk, other dairy products, meat, fish, eggs, gravy, and spoilable leftovers into a regular or disposable cooler surrounded by ice. Use a food/meat thermometer to check the temperature inside the cooler. Smaller containers completely full will remain cold longer.
• Stay clear of power crews working – for everyone’s safety. Bystanders may get too close for the workers to continue and they will have to stop working, which slows down the process of restoring power!
• If your house sustains damage to the electric service equipment, you may need to hire an electrician to assess the damage before power will be connected to your home again.
• Unplug or switch off unnecessary lights and appliances to prevent overload or surges when the power is restored. Electronics, such as TVs and computers, are particularly sensitive. To prevent damage, unplug everything as soon as the power goes out. Keep one light on so you know when power is back on.
• Outdoor grills are a good resource for cooking during outages. Always use them outdoors.
• Keep a pail near the sump pump for any flooding that may occur due to the outage if you do not have backup power for the pump.
• For additional tips, visit the MU website.