Winter Weather Safety Tips

Winter Weather Safety Tips
Posted on 01/02/2020
Tree branch with snowWhen extremely cold temperatures or winter precipitation are in the forecast, consider staying indoors, keep your phones charged and use these cold weather safety tips from our electrical service provider, Evergy (formerly KCP&L and Westar):
  • Run water at a trickle and open cabinet doors to prevent pipes from freezing.
  • For safety reasons, never use a stove or oven to heat your home.
  • Wear several layers of clothing to keep warm. Gloves and a hat will prevent losing body heat.
  • If you are using a space heater, place it on a level, hard surface. Keep anything flammable at least 3 feet away.
  • Bring pets indoors. If they can't come inside, make sure they have enough shelter to keep warm and access to unfrozen water.
  • Make an emergency kit that includes first-aid supplies, phone numbers, records, flashlights, batteries, water and nonperishable food.
  • Fill your car with gas ahead of time.
  • Stock up on groceries, water and necessary medications.
  • If you rely on electronic medical equipment, consider a backup generator and check with your power provider to see if they have a program to help keep your power on.
  • Know where to report a power outage. Evergy customers can report an outage at Evergy.com.

Generator Safety 

Generators are often used during an extended outage situation. If not used correctly, generators can create a shock hazard, fire or carbon monoxide poisoning. Keep these safety tips in mind:
  • Never connect generators to your home’s electrical panel or plug directly into a wall outlet.
  • Generators should connect to essential appliances such as freezers and refrigerators.
  • Follow manufacturer’s instructions for operation.
  • Don’t overload your generator.
  • If you connect a generator to house wiring, have a certified electrician install a power transfer switch.
  • Never use a portable generator indoors. This includes partially enclosed areas such as a garage.
  • Place the generator away from windows or doors that could allow carbon monoxide to come indoors.

Published on Jan. 2, 2020