LEONARDTOWN, MD (January 23, 2026) – The St. Mary’s County Health Department (SMCHD) is advising community members of safety precautions to prevent injury and avoid food-borne illness in the event of power outages due to predicted winter weather.  

Protecting yourself and your family during extreme cold weather: 

• Limit time outside during freezing temperatures. If necessary, dress in layers, cover exposed skin, wear waterproof, insulated boots, and wear a hat to prevent heat loss.
• Do not drive in poor road conditions. If you have to go out, be prepared with an emergency supply kit. 
• Take frequent breaks when shoveling snow to reduce the risk of a cardiac emergency.
• Bring pets inside during extreme weather. 

Be prepared for a power outage:

• Take an inventory of the items you need that rely on electricity. Plan for batteries and other alternative power sources to meet your needs when the power goes out, such as a portable charger or power bank.
• Talk to your medical provider about a power outage plan for medical devices powered by electricity and refrigerated medicines. 
• Prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Install carbon monoxide detectors with battery backup in central locations on every level of your home. Generators, camp stoves or charcoal grills should always be used outdoors and at least 20 feet away from windows. 
• Check on your neighbors and the elderly. 

Extended power outages may cause food spoilage. Following these tips can help prevent food spoilage and illness:

• Keep a supply of nonperishable food and water stocked. 
• Keep freezers and refrigerators closed. The refrigerator will keep food cold for about four hours. A full freezer will keep the temperature for about 48 hours.
• Use coolers with ice if necessary.
• Monitor temperatures with a thermometer. Throw out food if the temperature is 40 degrees or higher.
• When in doubt, throw it out! Throw away any food that has been exposed to temperatures 40 degrees or higher for two hours or more, or that has an unusual odor, color or texture.

For more information about safety tips during winter weather, power outages, and emergency supply kits please visit ready.gov/winter-ready, ready.gov/power-outages and ready.gov/winter-ready#travel. 

For additional food safety tips after power outages, please visit foodsafety.gov/food-safety. 

                                                                                                                       # # #