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Are You Prepared for a Power Outage?

What this so-called "Frankenstorm" brings to our region remains to be seen, but be prepared for the worst. That's the message from Oxford County's Emergency Management team in advance of the remnants of Hurricane Sandy. Heavy rainfall will bring the potential for flooding, and strong winds could disrupt our power when the storm strikes overnight. EMS Community Education Coordinator Dianne Marshall says if your family doesn't have a 72-hour emergency kit, now's the time to act. If you don't have it in place, a supply of bottled water and non-perishable food is a must. She also says a prolonged power outage could give you the chills. "Pull out those winter blankets that have been stored all summer and get that winter garb out because we might need it tonight. If the power does go out, it's going to get very cold. We need to make sure that we're protected." Marshall is also advising people to keep tuned to sources for local information, like Heart FM. "I think it's really important for all of us to pay attention to what's going on. There's a lot of ways to get information about potential storms: the Weather network, radio, websites. If you hear something is coming out way, take precautions and find out what you need to do to be prepared." The Emergency Survival Checklist below outlines the basic items every individual should have: Flashlight and batteries Radio and batteries or crank radio Spare batteries (for radio and flashlight) First-aid kit Telephone that can work during a power disruption Candles and matches/lighter Extra car keys and cash Important papers (identification) Non-perishable food (ready-to-eat items that do not require refrigeration) Manual can opener Bottled water (4 litres per person per day) Clothing and footwear Blankets or sleeping bag Toilet paper and other personal items Medication Backpack/duffle bag Whistle (to attract attention, if needed) Playing cards

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