Winter Storm Landon arrives: Tips to prepare for, stay warm and report power outages

With Winter Storm Landon beginning to bear down on the area, we’ve compiled some tips on readying, reporting power outages and how to stay warm when things get dark.

The storm could bring 7 to 12 inches of snow beginning Wednesday afternoon, leading to the potential for hazardous roads, frosty conditions and outages.

Here’s what you need to know about power outage preparation if it’s still possible in your area. The National Weather Service recommends you:

• Trim weak or damaged branches from trees on your property.
• Don’t park under trees.
• Have a week’s worth of provisions on hand.
• Don’t leave your wiper blades raised.
• Charge your devices.

You can also make sure your car is fueled ahead of the storm and limit trips or stay home as conditions worsen. If you must drive, slow down.

Also, bring your outdoor pets inside, the American Red Cross reminds. Make sure livestock have shelter and protected food and water sources.

Once the power is out, stay safe with these tips from ready.gov:

• Keep your refrigerator and freezer closed as much as possible. A full freezer will keep the temperature for about 48 hours.
• Generators should only be used outdoors and away from windows. If you have a carbon monoxide detector, make sure it is in good working order.
• Don’t use your gas stove or oven to heat your home.
• Disconnect appliances and electronics to avoid power surges.
• Have alternative plans for medicines in need of refrigeration and medical devices that need to be powered. Know how long refrigerated medicines can last at higher temperatures.
• Have extra batteries on hand to power flashlights, and consider alternative sources, like a power bank or portable charger.
• Have nonperishable food and water on hand for each family member. When the power comes back on, throw out your food if the freezer temperature reached 40 degrees or higher.

During a winter power outage, the National Weather Service recommends you stay warm with these tips:

• Close curtains and blinds to try and keep in the heat.
• Close off rooms you are not using.
• Wear layers of loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing.
• Eat and drink for energy, but avoid caffeine and alcohol.
• Stuff towels or rags under doors to keep in the heat.

Stay informed during a power outage:

Ameren Illinois energy customers can report a power outage at their home online or by calling 1-800-755-5000.

An outage map for Ameren’s service area indicated more than 3,700 customers in the state were already without power just before noon Wednesday.

This story was originally published February 2, 2022 at 11:31 AM.