The interview posted above is from SDPB's daily public-affairs show, In the Moment, hosted by Lori Walsh.
A recent spring blizzard left thousands without power. According to an Associated Press report, 1,500 customers were left in the dark after a power outage in northwestern South Dakota, while 14,000 were impacted by a power outage in North Dakota.
Creighton Smith, a State Farm agent in Sioux Falls, said there are best practices during and after a power outage.
He said people should contact their insurance provider about storm-related damage.
"It never hurts to get an estimate on the damage when it comes to your deductible," Smith said. "That will help you have confidence in your claim decision."
When refrigerators lose power, State Farm says, "When in doubt, throw it out!" The company recommends disposing refrigerated food that's been exposed to temperatures 40 degrees or higher.
People should also be cautious when using portable generators. State Farm advises never using a generator indoors or in attached garages. Exhaust fumes contain carbon monoxide, which can be deadly if inhaled.
