Preparedness Information: Heat

Preparedness Information: Heat

In colder climates, lack of heat in the winter can be life-threatening. If the power goes off and you don't use a generator, it is likely you will not be able to heat your home if you use electric or thermostatically controlled gas or oil heaters.

• If heat is cut off, your fireplace or wood stove may act as an alternate heat source. Since heat circulation without fans is difficult, plan to live in one or two rooms and shut the doors to other rooms in your home.
• Inspect your fireplace annually to be sure it's in good working order and operates property. If necessary, have it cleaned.
• Try not to enter or leave the house from the room that you heat. Make sure there is adequate ventilation in the rooms you heat to prevent the buildup of carbon monoxide, other gases or smoke.
• Be prepared to relocate to a community shelter for warmth and protection during an extended power outage or in severely cold weather.