FARGO — Losing your energy in the middle of a winter storm may not be a priority on a beautiful fall day, but experts say now is the time to make sure you’re prepared.

As we approach the winter months, we know we are getting closer to blizzards and conditions causing power outages.

Electricians say it’s important to make sure your backup generator is working properly.

You also need to think about how you will keep your phone charged, making sure you have enough food and water, and how you will stay warm.

They say you can never have too many blankets or alternative heat sources to protect you from whipping conditions.

You’ll also want to make sure you have your power company’s number handy and a moving plan if your home gets too cold or the outage lasts too long.

“Power outages can and will happen. It’s just a reality, so you really need to think ahead and be prepared,” said Chad Brousseau, with Cass County Electric. The company says to immediately contact its 24/7 Power Control Center number if you notice a power outage. This number is 701-356-4400.

My name is Noah Losing and I’m from Oxbow, ND. I graduated in spring 2024 from Grand Canyon University where I studied communications with a concentration in broadcasting and new media. I had the opportunity to serve as president of the Future Broadcasters club on campus, where I oversaw over 40 students in a bi-weekly news broadcast. After a summer internship in Tucson, Arizona, I found my home at WDAY.