CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. (CLARKSVILLENOW) – Thousands of Montgomery County residents are expected to be without power for the next several hours. Crews from CDE and CEMC are working to restore power to over 30,000 residents and businesses.

Being without power may cause a mini panic for some, scrambling around for flashlights and candles. Others quickly realize how dependent their life has become on electronics, from microwaves, refrigerators, televisions, and more.

Here are a few things to remember while waiting for power to be restored (and to prepare for the next power outage):
1. Have a ‘Go To’ Place for Candles and Flashlights: Designate an space in your house that you can find easily should the house go dark. A drawer in the kitchen or above the washer and dryer. Have the following items handy in the box: candles, flashlight, matches or lighter, extra batteries. It’s a good idea to have a weather radio in the box or drawer as well.

2. Unplug Your Electronics: This includes anything that could be damaged should a power surge occur when the power is restored. Computers, gaming systems, cell phones, etc.

3. Call The Power Company: Even if you believe the “neighbor has already called” it is always better to notify the power company if you’ve experienced a power outage.
Report an outage with CDE
Report an outage with CEMC

4. Keep the Refrigerator and Freezer Closed: Food in the fridge will stay cool up to 4 hours with the doors closed. Food in the freezer will last 24 hours. Do not continue to open and close the doors as this will diminish the amount of time your food stays fresh.

5. Lock Your Doors and Leave Your Pets Inside: Unfortunately, power outages and bad weather are often the perfect opportunity for thieves. Make sure your home and pets are secure. Lock your vehicle too.

6. Check on Your Neighbors: If you have elderly neighbors, those with small children, or if you know a neighbor is deployed, take a moment to go check on their home. Be sure to report any fallen trees or damage if your neighbor is not home.

7. Keep Board Games, Books, and Cards Handy: If you have kids at home, they’re bound to go stir crazy after awhile. Keep games and cards handy to entertain them the old fashion way. Sans screens.

8. Driving? Make sure you know the rules of the road: If you are out on the roadways think back to your Drivers Ed days. When traffic lights are out, approach the intersection with caution. Use the intersection the same way you would use an all-way stop sign intersection.