Consumer Protection Reminds the Public to Follow Winter Storm Safety Tips

HARTFORD - The Department of Consumer Protection (DCP) is reminding the public of safety tips ahead of the impending winter storm this weekend.

If you experience a prolonged power outage, it is important to remember the following tips for storing medication and food, and for staying warm in your home.

Medication

• If the power is out for more than a day, throw out any refrigerated medication, unless the drug label says otherwise.
• Temperature-sensitive medication loses its effectiveness if not refrigerated and should be replaced with a new supply as soon as possible.
• If someone's life is dependent on medication, use until new supply is available.

Learn more about medication safety advice following severe weather

Food Safety

• Before the storm, freeze containers of water and gel packs to help keep food cold if the power goes out. In a pinch, food can be placed in plastic bins or coolers and kept outside if temperatures are below 38 degrees for refrigerated food or below freezing for frozen food. Clean snow in plastic bags or food storage containers can also be used as ice packs. If you place food outside, keep out of direct sunlight and away from areas that can be accessed by animals.
• Have a supply of bottled water and coolers on hand.
• Keep the refrigerator closed as much as possible. The refrigerator will remain cold for about 4 hours, if unopened. A full freezer will maintain its temperature for 48 hours.
• Discard any perishable food that has been at room temperature for more than 2 hours. Throw out items that have an unusual odor, color, or texture.

Generators

• Never use a generator inside your home, basement, shed or garage, even if doors and windows are open.
• Keep generators outside and at least 10 feet away from windows, doors, and vents.
• Read both the label on your generator and the owner's manual for instructions.
• Never store flammable liquids, including gasoline and lighter fluids, near your generator or portable grill.

Beware of Scammers After the Storm

Following a storm, scammers often impersonate storm recovery companies, also called "storm chasers," who will offer repair services at a low price and without a contract. All home improvement projects must have a written contract in Connecticut, and the contractor must be registered with DCP.

Consumers with complaints about fraudulent contractors and storm chasers can file a complaint with DCP by emailing [email protected] or visiting our File a Complaint page. Complaints should include receipts, contracts, and any descriptions or documents of conversations.

Learn More:

• How to prepare for cold weather and winter storms
• Stay up to date with emergency alerts from the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection
• For emergency support in Connecticut, dial 2-1-1