Important information in preparation for the expected ice storm

By Mark Gardner
Ellsworth County I-R

     As Storm Jupiter closes in on our reading area we want you, the reader, to have as much information as possible on what to do in a emergency situation.
     With forecasters expecting dangerous levels of ice accumulations, necessary precautions should be taken.
     In the event of no power and you need a warm place to go, please contact your local police department administration telephone number and they will direct you on how and what to do to receive help. Do not call 911, unless it is an emergency. (Ellsworth Police administration number is 785-472-4416).
     Ellsworth County Emergency Management director Keith Haberer added, “It’s best that you ride out the storm in your own residence”.  The county has temporary shelters on stand-by in case they are needed such as churches and city hall buildings.  This goes for all towns in and around the Ellsworth County area.
     Here are some life saving tips that can help you through the storm-
     If using a electric heater make sure it is not by a flammable source. Gas and propane heaters are not recommended, unless it is in a well ventilated area.
     Stock-up on food, water, prescription medicine.
     In the event that you end up at a shelter make sure to bring any prescriptions with you.
     If you have pets, don’t forget to bring them along with food, water, and medicine for the animals, especially if the animals take any prescriptions.
     Keep your refrigerator closed as much as possible to conserve the temperature. Same goes for coolers.
    Keep your vehicles full of gas.
    Get some cash because when the power goes out, so do ATM’s and banks.
    When consuming stored food, eat the perishable items before you start in on the frozen foods and goods.
    Make sure you have plenty of clothes washed and ready along with extra ways to stay warm, like blankets and coats.
    Local utility companies, Rolling Hills Cooperative and Western Co-op  Electric Company, suggest you follow these steps in order to assure your safety and the safety of others and any employees that may be working close by.
     Rule of thumb - always stay away from downed power lines or any lines. Do not assume what kind of line it is, just stay away. Call your local utility company and 911 to report the location of a downed power line. If lines are busy and you need to report something the utility companies ask that you keep trying to get through on the phone.
     In the event of this ice storm, please note that they will be very busy and will do their best to restore power and communicate with all customers promptly.
     Report it immediately - don’t wait.
     If a line comes down on your house or near a structure, same rules apply, stay away.
     Contact information for Rolling Hills Electric Cooperative Toll-free (800)530-5572 or (785)-472-4021.
     Western Co-op Electric Association (785)-456-6720.
     If an emergency call 911.
     If this storm impacts the beginning of next week, school may get called off.
     Try not to travel as roads will begin to close and be very dangerous while covered with ice.
     Remember that bridges will also be very slick. Crews will be out trying to get roads open and accessible in a timely matter.
     Best advice - stay home where it is safe.