Are you ready?

In conjunction with National Preparedness Month in September, Fleming-Mason Energy urges you to be prepared in the event of severe weather and fall storms.

“To maximize your safety as well as comfort during the stormy season, think like a scout and always be prepared,” says Dustin Skaggs, Fleming-Mason Energy’s safety manager.

Fleming-Mason Energy has an extensive storm plan that covers all our basic needs, from supplies to being ready to feed our employees working in bad weather. You should have a storm plan, too.

Give attention to these items when making your storm checklist:

• LOVED ONES: If a family member has a medical need for power, be sure to have a backup power source, like a properly installed generator. Have extra medical supplies on hand and a plan to relocate if conditions warrant.
• MEDICAL NEEDS: Ensure prescription drug supplies are adequate and have a first-aid kit.
• LIGHT: Have battery-powered flashlights and lanterns at the ready. Avoid candles and other light sources that require flames.
• WATER: Stockpile bottled water for drinking. If you’re on a well, prefill bathtubs and other large containers for household use, like flushing toilets. If you have livestock oryour livelihood depends on a water supply, have a plan to operate the well.
• FOOD: Foods that don’t require cooking are ideal, like canned fruit, peanut butter, trail mix, bread and crackers. Cook outside on a grill or propane-powered stove or griddle.
• INFORMATION: Charge cellphones with a power bank or in the car. Have a battery-powered AM/FM radio and NOAA weather radio. Use a power inverter to run a laptop from the car.
• MONEY: Have extra cash on hand.
• COMMUNICATING WITH FLEMING-MASON ENERGY: Report a power outage by calling (800) 464-3144. Get updates on large outages by visiting our Outage Center at www.fme.coop or Facebook page.