Just coming through a major storm reminds us how vulnerable seniors can be when power goes out and cleanup begins. Even as conditions improve in Greenville-Spartanburg, families need to stay vigilant about food safety, generator use, downed lines, and carbon monoxide risks. BrightStar Care shares essential recovery tips to keep loved ones safe at home.
Food Safety After Power Loss
Refrigerators stay cold for about 4 hours during outages; freezers hold for 48 hours if the door stays closed. When power returns, check for spoilage before eating: discard perishable items that have been above 40°F for over 2 hours. Throw out any food with an unusual odor, color, or texture. Use coolers with ice packs for medications or critical items until electricity is stable.
Generator Safety First
Never run generators inside garages, basements, or near windows; place them outdoors at least 20 feet from doors and vents. Carbon monoxide poisoning is silent and deadly for seniors with respiratory issues. Use heavy-duty, grounded extension cords and avoid overloading circuits. Turn off generators before refueling to prevent fires.
Downed Lines and Wet Hazards
Assume all downed power lines are live. Teach seniors to stay far away and report them immediately to utility companies. Wet floors from leaks or melting snow create slip risks; mop thoroughly and use non-slip mats. Check for hidden water damage behind baseboards or under carpets that could lead to mold growth.
Medication and Medical Equipment Backup
Power outages disrupt CPAP machines, oxygen concentrators, and refrigerated medications. Keep a list of local pharmacies with 24-hour service and backup power options. Battery-powered or manual blood pressure cuffs help monitor health when digital devices fail. Contact BrightStar Care for emergency backup care if medical equipment fails.
Staying Warm Without Overheating
Layer clothing and use blankets rather than space heaters, which pose fire risks. Keep sleeping areas at 68-72°F if using supplemental heat. Check on neighbors without heat, especially those living alone. Avoid using ovens or stoves for heat; they produce dangerous carbon monoxide.
Emotional Support During Recovery
Storm aftermath brings anxiety about property damage, isolation, and disrupted routines. Regular check-in calls, help sorting mail and bills, and light housework reduce stress. Companion care visits provide reassurance and help seniors feel less overwhelmed during cleanup.
Stock Up Now for Next Time
Build a 7-day emergency kit with non-perishable food, bottled water (1 gallon per person per day), extra medications, flashlights, batteries, a battery-powered radio, and manual can opener. Store important papers, cash, and a charged phone in a waterproof bag. Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors monthly.
BrightStar Care Storm Recovery Support
BrightStar Care Greenville-Spartanburg offers immediate response for storm recovery including wellness checks, medication assistance, transportation to pharmacies, meal preparation, and companionship. Our caregivers help with cleanup, safety checks, and emotional support so families can focus on healing.
Food Safety After Power Loss
Refrigerators stay cold for about 4 hours during outages; freezers hold for 48 hours if the door stays closed. When power returns, check for spoilage before eating: discard perishable items that have been above 40°F for over 2 hours. Throw out any food with an unusual odor, color, or texture. Use coolers with ice packs for medications or critical items until electricity is stable.
Generator Safety First
Never run generators inside garages, basements, or near windows; place them outdoors at least 20 feet from doors and vents. Carbon monoxide poisoning is silent and deadly for seniors with respiratory issues. Use heavy-duty, grounded extension cords and avoid overloading circuits. Turn off generators before refueling to prevent fires.
Downed Lines and Wet Hazards
Assume all downed power lines are live. Teach seniors to stay far away and report them immediately to utility companies. Wet floors from leaks or melting snow create slip risks; mop thoroughly and use non-slip mats. Check for hidden water damage behind baseboards or under carpets that could lead to mold growth.
Medication and Medical Equipment Backup
Power outages disrupt CPAP machines, oxygen concentrators, and refrigerated medications. Keep a list of local pharmacies with 24-hour service and backup power options. Battery-powered or manual blood pressure cuffs help monitor health when digital devices fail. Contact BrightStar Care for emergency backup care if medical equipment fails.
Staying Warm Without Overheating
Layer clothing and use blankets rather than space heaters, which pose fire risks. Keep sleeping areas at 68-72°F if using supplemental heat. Check on neighbors without heat, especially those living alone. Avoid using ovens or stoves for heat; they produce dangerous carbon monoxide.
Emotional Support During Recovery
Storm aftermath brings anxiety about property damage, isolation, and disrupted routines. Regular check-in calls, help sorting mail and bills, and light housework reduce stress. Companion care visits provide reassurance and help seniors feel less overwhelmed during cleanup.
Stock Up Now for Next Time
Build a 7-day emergency kit with non-perishable food, bottled water (1 gallon per person per day), extra medications, flashlights, batteries, a battery-powered radio, and manual can opener. Store important papers, cash, and a charged phone in a waterproof bag. Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors monthly.
BrightStar Care Storm Recovery Support
BrightStar Care Greenville-Spartanburg offers immediate response for storm recovery including wellness checks, medication assistance, transportation to pharmacies, meal preparation, and companionship. Our caregivers help with cleanup, safety checks, and emotional support so families can focus on healing.