State Farm shares insurance coverage information and tips for power outages from Winter Storm Olive

With thousands of Michigan residents impacted by power outages from Winter Storm Olive, State Farm is sharing insurance coverage information and tips for what to do during and after a power outage.

• Many residents may face spoiled food or even appliance damage from long power outages. If you do have a loss of food or appliance damage, check your home insurance policy or small business policy to see if the loss may be covered.

• Did you know that the typical homeowner's policy generally provides coverage for spoiled food due to a power outage, if the outage is tied to a covered peril. (For example, there is a storm that causes a power outage or if a car hits a utility pole.) In order for coverage to apply, it will need to meet your deductible.

• If there are questions about coverage from any type of damage (home or auto) from Winter Storm Olive, please contact your insurance agent and file a claim as soon as possible.

During a power outage

• Turn off, unplug or disconnect any appliances, equipment or electronics that were on when the power went out. When power comes back on, it may come back with momentary "surges" or "spikes" that can damage equipment such as computers and motors in appliances like the air conditioner, refrigerator, washer or furnace.

• Leave one light on so you know when the power returns.

• Avoid opening the refrigerator and freezer. It helps keep the food cool. Before eating food items, check them for spoilage.

After a power outage

• Dispose refrigerated food that's been exposed to temperatures 40⁰ or higher for two hours or more, or that has an unusual odor, color or texture. When in doubt, throw it out!

• Discard any medication that's refrigerated if the power is out for more than a day, unless the drug's label says otherwise. If a life depends on the refrigerated medication consult a doctor or pharmacist to see if the medicine can be used until a new supply is available.

• Check with your insurance agent about coverage for food spoilage or appliance damage in your policy.

Power outage tips: https://www.statefarm.com/simple-insights/residence/power-outage-tips