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Storm Preparedness Resources

This page outlines some helpful resources to help you and your family prepare for a storm. Because significant storm/emergency events often affect internet access, the Town recommends that community members print this Storm Reference Guide and save it somewhere safe in your home for future reference.

To help prepare for an impending storm and minimize potential inconveniences to yourself/your family, all residents are encouraged to do the following BEFORE a significant storm event:

  • WELL USERS -  Fill your bathtub(s) with water, which can be used to fill your toilet tank(s) and flush toilets as needed. (At least a 1 gallon per flush is recommended.)
  • Charge all household phones and electronic devices in full (including medical devices)
  • Bathe/shower in case extended power outages affect showering access.
  • Confirm you have a multi-day supply of food, drinking water, and medications for all family members (and pets) in your household.
  • Test your generator to make sure it is set up to run efficiently. Generators should be properly grounded and should never be plugged directly into a home's wiring. Place them OUTSIDE, (not in garages), with the exhaust facing outward and as far away from your home as possible (e.g. away from doors, windows, and air vents) to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Do NOT fuel your generator while it’s running. Click here to view Generator Safety Best Practices. For additional information concerning the installation of generators, contact the Town Building Official’s Office at (860) 652-7521, or the Fire Marshal’s Office at (860) 652-7526.
  • Bring in outdoor furniture and other items that could be picked up or blown away by high winds.
  • Test flashlights and replace batteries as needed.
  • If possible, park vehicles in garages or carports, or away from trees to avoid potential damage from fallen trees/limbs

Guidance for Significant Storm Events and Prolonged Power Outages

CARBON MONOXIDE

DO NOT USE generators, charcoal or gas grills, gas lanterns, or camping stoves indoors or in an enclosed area, like a garage or basement. These items should be used outdoors only. DO NOT use a generator in a garage even if the garage doors and windows are open. Ventilation is not sufficient and could result in carbon monoxide build-up inside of your home. Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include: headache, dizziness, weakness. nausea, vomiting, sleepiness and confusion. If you suspect carbon monoxide poisoning. IMMEDIATELY leave your home and dial 9-1-1 from OUTSIDE of your home. 

DOWNED POWER LINES

Stay away from down power lines and trees and always assume they are LIVE. Report any downed wires to Glastonbury Police Dispatch at 860-633-8301.

FOOD SAFETY

While the power is out, keep the refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible. Throw away perishable foods (including meat, poultry, fish, eggs, and leftovers) when the power has been off for 4 hours or more. Throw away food that has an unusual odor, color, or texture. When in doubt, throw it out.

Freezers, if left unopened and full, will keep food safe for 48 hours (24 hours if half full).

ELECTRIC SERVICE METERING

If your electric meter or the electric cable attached to your home has been damaged, you will need to contact a licensed electrician to make the needed repairs. (See diagram of electrical hookup to house). When completed, please call the Building Inspection Department at (860) 652-7521 to schedule an inspection. When you call, the Town will need your name, address and electrician’s name and CT license number.

HOME ELECTRICITY PRECAUTIONS (POWER SURGE PRECAUTIONS)

Homeowners should unplug all surge protectors and electrical appliances such as TVs, computers, refrigerators, freezers, etc. It is recommended to shut off all breakers including your main electrical panel breaker. Once the power is restored to your home, turn on the main breaker first. Then turn one breaker on at a time. If your lights get extremely bright or dim, shut off the main breaker and call Eversource. If the breaker keeps tripping (shutting off) call an electrician. If it will not move, do NOT try to force it. 

 

DISASTER PREPAREDNESS AND PREVENTION RESOURCES

The winter and hurricane seasons brings Connecticut extreme weather conditions and the potential for power outages and severe storms. Having a preparedness plan in place for your home can positively impact how you protect your family and property in the event of a storm or natural disaster.

The American Red Cross has developed a number of helpful checklists related to storm preparedness that can be referenced through the links below. Please review the links below with loved ones to be properly prepared.