Butler County experienced a major power outage Nov. 15 and continuing for some of us through Nov. 20 or longer. Our emergency management personnel at every level responded effectively and efficiently. Warming stations were opened and a Red Cross shelter was set up in response to citizens’ needs. Our churches, fire stations, volunteer organizations and private citizens rose to the occasion and provided material and moral support for family, friends and neighbors. Kudos to all of you.

And we were fortunate. The daily temperatures throughout the outage hovered in the 30s both day and night — uncomfortable though not life threatening for most of us. The extended outage did result in food losses for many families as refrigerators and freezers no longer functioned creating a spoilage situation. This was particularly painful and costly for many as their planned Thanksgiving provisions were lost.

What lessons were learned? How prepared were we? As citizens, we are asked to be prepared to “shelter in place” for up to 72 hours in case of an emergency. Statistically, the average American can remain at home for about four hours during a power outage. The lights go out, the furnace shuts down, the toilets no longer flush, food begins to spoil and drinking water becomes a valued commodity. Another statistic; the average American uses 80-100 gallons of water per day. If we have to evacuate, are we prepared to leave quickly with requisite medications, plans for our pets, a family communication plan and a change of clothes?

Take an action. Go online to Ready.gov and search for power outage; lots and lots of good information on all kinds of emergencies and challenging events.

Be prepared. Don’t use the Ostrich Approach to emergency preparedness.

The writer is a Pennsylvania Red Cross volunteer and disability advocate