No. Thermostats, furnace fans and blowers all run on electricity.

  • Wear extra layers of clothes and use several layers of blankets.

  • Do not get wet if there is no way to get dry.

  • Drink and eat enough to preserve health.

  • Close off all rooms that are not in use and do not need to be heated.

  • To keep rooms warm, close curtains, shades or drapes. Cover doors and windows.

  • Don’t touch or get near any fallen lines. 

  • Stay away from downed power lines. 

  • Notify the utility company.

Use generators only as independent power sources. Keep them outside and run a cord inside. Don’t connect generators to main service panels. This could injure or kill utility workers trying to restore power. Installing a Generlink is a safe way to use a generator. Generlink detects when a generator is in operation, and automatically disconnects from the utility grid, eliminating dangerous feedback. Sullivan County Rural Electric sells Generlinks to its members. Note that other approved generator switches can be used as well.

Unfortunately it is often impossible to determine when power will be restored during a system-wide outage due to storm damage. Crews will work to restore power as quickly as possible and often additional crews are brought in to assist. But, there may be times when you will be without power for days. Consult your doctor for a plan.