When ice and heavy snow bring down limbs and power lines, safety is a consideration indoors and out. Make sure you know how to weather the storm.

Before a winter storm, have supplies on hand and know how to stay warm:

• Keep a battery-powered radio or TV, flashlights and a supply of fresh batteries. Also, have water, blankets and non-perishable food.
• When power goes out, it can spike when coming back on. This can damage electronics. Keep your electronics safe by unplugging them when the power goes out. Leave one lamp or switch on as a signal for when your power returns.
• To prevent water pipes from freezing, keep faucets turned on slightly, so water drips from the tap. Know how to shut off water valves in case a pipe bursts.
• Never use a charcoal grill to cook or heat inside the home. Burning charcoal gives off deadly carbon monoxide gas. Charcoal grills should only be used outdoors.

Tips provided by safeelectricity.org.