By Stefanie Anderson

As we move into the season of shorter days and unpredictable weather, the chances of power outages naturally increase.

Power outages can be extremely distressing but also hazardous. At Clallam County Fire District 3, we want to help our community stay safe and be prepared when the power goes out. While most of us think about stocking up on food, water, flashlights, and blankets, one area that’s often overlooked is preparing for medical needs that rely on electricity.

Power outages can occur through many different means, such as high winds, heavy snow, flooding, or even a single-car accident involving a power pole. Being somewhat isolated on the Peninsula, with limited electricity sources, we are at increased risk of extended power outages while lines are repaired. Whatever the cause, losing power can affect vital services such as heating, cooling, and medical equipment. That’s why having a plan ahead of time is so important.

Many residents rely on devices such as oxygen concentrators, ventilators, CPAP machines, IV pumps, power lift recliners, or motorized wheelchairs. Each household should start by creating a list of any medical devices or medications that depend on electricity. Refer to each device’s manual for further information on options for operating during power outages. Also, consider talking with your pharmacist about safe storage for medications that need to be refrigerated.

Backup power can make all the difference during an outage. Smaller devices like nebulizers or CPAP machines can often run on battery packs, so keeping extras charged and ready is imperative. Portable power stations are another excellent option and can keep critical equipment running for several hours. The devices come in various sizes and power capabilities to serve your specific needs.

For homes with multiple medical needs or larger equipment, a home generator can provide reliable power for days. These can run off various fuel sources such as gasoline, diesel, or propane.

Be sure to only operate generators outdoors, away from any openings into your home through which carbon monoxide can enter.

Refer to the manufacturer’s recommendations for installing generators, and have regular maintenance performed on them.

Here are some specific things to consider:

• Supplemental oxygen: Talk with your healthcare provider and oxygen supplier about available backup options. Many suppliers offer simple oxygen tanks that don’t require electricity. If you use an oxygen concentrator, have a backup option to supply power. Also consider a portable concentrator and keep extra batteries and car chargers available. Make sure the user and their family know how to use all of this equipment before the power goes out, and you need them.

• Nebulizers, CPAP, or BiPAP machines: Speak with your healthcare provider regarding additional options available to you if the outage lasts for an extended period. Assure your equipment has a battery backup and consider a car adapter.

• Motorized wheelchairs: Keep a manual wheelchair available, maintain spare batteries, or have a generator capable of charging your chair.

In addition to your medical equipment plan, it’s helpful to have a general emergency kit ready. Include:

• Fully charged backup batteries for medical devices

• Portable power banks for phones and small electronics

• Manuals or quick reference sheets for medical devices

• A comprehensive list of emergency contacts, including family, friends, healthcare provider, etc.

• Nonperishable food, water, flashlights, and warm blankets

Keeping all your supplies together will make things easier and less stressful when the power goes out.

Don’t wait until an emergency to see if your plan works; practice and evaluate the results now before it truly matters. Attempt to use your backup power sources, and coordinate with family members or caregivers to ensure they can operate them as well.

Rehearsing your plan in advance will help identify issues before they arise during a true emergency and ensure a seamless transition when the time comes.

Preparing in advance for power outages doesn’t need to be intimidating. A little planning today can prevent a lot of stress later. Fire District 3 encourages all residents, especially those with medical needs, to take time now to review their emergency plans, gather supplies, and make sure everyone in the household knows what to do.

For more resources on disaster preparedness, visit ccfd3.org/disaster-preparedness-resources. Another resource for further information is clallamcountywa.gov/239/Preparedness.