Tips on How to Handle Extended Power Outages in Foxborough

As Hurricane Sandy stubbornly churned up the East Coast Monday, Foxborough was hit hard with townwide power outages affecting nearly 75 percent of the town's National Grid customers.

So now that the power is out in Foxborough, here are some tips from the American Red Cross and other emergency agencies:

• Make sure to have non-perishable food, water and first aid supplies on hand.
• Contact your local utility company, especially if power lines are down in your area. Do not go near downed power lines.
• Turn off and unplug major appliances including televisions, computers, stereos and other electronics to avoid damage from a power surge when the power comes back on.
• Leave on one light so you’ll know when the power is back on.
• Do not use a generator unless it has been properly installed and is properly ventilated, to avoid the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Avoid unnecessary travel. Traffic lights could be out and power lines could be down, making driving dangerous.

If the power is expected to be out for an extended period of time, like it is in Foxborough, consider staying with family members or friends or getting a hotel room, Gillerlane suggested. Many communities also offer emergency shelters.

"Extended power outages can be incredibly stressful,” said Michael Gillerlane, a senior assistant vice president with Amica Insurance. “But it’s important to make sure you and your family stay safe.”

For more power outage safety tips, visit the American Red Cross the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.