Nobody likes a power outage, but preparation can help keep you and your family safe and comfortable if an outage does occur.

Preparation is especially important if you live in an isolated area, but even in urban areas it’s a good idea to have a disaster plan.

Here are some tips:

• Assemble a disaster supply kit. Include winter-specific items such as rock salt to melt ice on walkways, sand to improve traction, and other snow removal equipment.

• Maintain several days’ supply of medicines, water, and food that needs no cooking or refrigeration. A rule of thumb is to store at least one gallon of water per person per day.

• Have emergency heating equipment and fuel so you can keep at least one room of your residence livable.

• Keep flashlights and lanterns and a supply of batteries on hand. Test batteries periodically to make sure they are strong.

• Have plenty of warm clothing and blankets to maintain a safe body temperature in extreme cold.

Food safety during a power outage

If the power is out for less than two hours, the food in your refrigerator and freezer will be safe to eat. While the power is out, keep the refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible to keep food cold longer.

If the power is out for more than two hours, follow these guidelines.

• A freezer that is half full will hold food safely for up to 24 hours. A full freezer will hold food safely for 48 hours.

• Pack milk, other dairy products, meat, fish eggs, gravy and other items that can spoil into a cooler surrounded by ice. Inexpensive Styrofoam coolers are fine for this purpose.

• Use a digital quick-response thermometer to check the temperature of your food right before you cook or eat it. Throw away any food that has a temperature of more than 40 degrees Fahrenheit.

If you have a disability or special need, you may have to take additional steps. If anyone in your household relies on life-support equipment, back-up power is essential. Make sure to inform the Co-op of the special need, so your home will get priority for restoration of power.