Be Prepared for a Power Outage

Power outages in summer months are inconvenient, but they usually involve little more than buying ice and loading the food from your refrigerator into a cooler. Power outages during winter months in Bethlehem, PA can pose a greater risk to you and your family, so it is best to be prepared. Saucon Insurance Agency can provide guidance to help you prepare for major winter weather. 

Step 1: Assemble an Emergency Kit

Be sure to include:

  • Water and food
  • Extra blankets and clothing
  • Battery or solar powered radio
  • Alternative power sources for phones and medical equipment 
  • Flashlights with extra batteries
  • Rock salt (ice melt), kitty litter, and shovel
  • Heat source– ventilate safely
  • Generator and gas– never run indoors to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning

Step 2: Take Action

Make contact with the power company to determine estimated time before power is restored. If it is going to be more than a few hours, it is time to act. Gather family members, extra clothing, and blankets in a central room, preferably a room with a stove or fireplace. Close off extra rooms to keep heat where it is needed. Keep water pipes from bursting by letting water trickle. Be sure you know how to turn off the main line. Do not open the refrigerator or freezer. Freezer food will last about 2 days if undisturbed. Food in the refrigerator only has about 4 hours before it becomes questionable. If outside weather permits, place food in a cooler and use snow to keep it cold. 

Step 3: Know When to Go

Ideally, you have what you need to stay warm and nourished for about a week. If that’s not the case, know when it’s time to seek help. Many local radio stations and news apps will announce shelter locations. If you are unable to drive out, contact emergency services.

The agents at Saucon Insurance Agency encourage you to be prepared for the possibility of a power outage, especially since Bethlehem, PA is no stranger to surprise winter weather events. 

 

 

Winter Driving Safety

Winter is here, which means cold weather and plenty of ice and snow for Bethlehem, PA. While we all have places we must go each day such as work, school, and other activities, there are times when this can be dangerous during the winter. At Saucon Insurance Agency, our hope is that all of our customers and their families stay safe when driving throughout the winter. Here are some safety tips to use throughout the season.

Safety Tip #1: Keep Up with Local Weather Reports

It is not a matter of if, but when the roads will ice over in Bethlehem, PA. We recommend that you make it a habit to regularly check the local weather reports. If the roads are too treacherous for driving, make the smart choice and stay home. It is also good to get familiar with weather terminology. Terms such as advisory, watch, or warning are used to let you know the severity of an upcoming storm.

Safety Tip #2: Winterize Your Vehicle

Have your vehicle inspected by a local mechanic, or examine it yourself. It needs to have adequate amounts of antifreeze to prevent freezing. Your tires should have plenty of tread or they may need to be replaced. Make sure that your thermostat and defroster are in good working order so you stay warm while on the road.

Safety Tip #3: Keep an Emergency Kit in Your Car

If you are stranded in the cold, an emergency kit will come in handy. Your kit should include essentials such as a first aid kit, flashlight, batteries, blankets, warm clothes, water, and snacks.  Call your insurance agent as soon as possible if you need assistance while on the road. At Saucon Insurance Agency, we hope you stay safe and warm all season long.