Health Tip: Winter Power Failure

(HealthDayNews) -- With winter weather fast approaching, people living in colder climates should be prepared for a possible power outage, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggests.

If possible, prepare for an alternate way to heat your home, such as by storing dry firewood for a fireplace or wood stove, or kerosene for a kerosene heater.

Also, you should assemble a power emergency kit, including matches, a flashlight or battery-powered lantern, battery-powered radio and clock, extra batteries, and a manual can opener, the CDC says.

And you should keep several days'' supply of food that needs no cooking or refrigeration -- such as bread, crackers, cereal, canned foods, dried fruits and bottled water.

-- Anne Thompson