Tom's Blog
During the summer you may not consider the possibility of a power outage quite as much as during the winter months, but power outages during the summer are prevalent and come with their own share of issues. Severe thunderstorms can sweep through quickly, causing downed trees, power lines, and knocking out power. If and when Mother Nature strikes, will you know how to be prepared for a power outage?
Being Prepared By Planning Ahead for Your Power Outage
Power outages may last a few hours, but sometimes you may be without power for up to a week or more so knowing some basic tips on power outage preparedness is essential. Keep in mind that losing power during the summer months can be excruciating, especially with soaring temperatures, so follow these guidelines until your power has been restored.
- Stock up on bottled water and non-perishable food items.
- Gather all flashlights and portable radios and ensure each has new batteries. Having extra batteries on hand is always recommended as you don’t know how long before the power is restored.
- Charge up all of your electronics, such as phone and computer(s) and perhaps invest in a portable batter charger. These chargers come in a variety of sizes and power capabilities, so consider your needs before purchasing one. You can also invest in a car phone charger so that your phone can be charged in your car if you have a power outage.
- Fill up your car with fuel. When gas stations lose electricity, no fuel can be pumped. Also keep in mind that you should do this as quickly as possible because the gas stations that DO have power may run into a shortage of fuel with an abundance of people rushing to fuel their cars.
- Refrain from opening the refrigerator/freezer doors during a power outage. By keeping the doors closed, your food in the refrigerator will stay cold for up to 24 hours and the freezer for 48 hours. You can always stock any coolers you may have with bags of ice in an effort to preserve food.
- Consider purchasing a generator, which allows you to run the basic necessities without having power.
- If you have well water, fill up the bathtub for sanitation concerns. Without power, you won’t be able to flush toilets.
- During the winter months, gather plenty of warm blankets, wrap pipes in insulation to prevent pipes from freezing, and weather-strip all doors and windows to keep cold air out.
Losing power due to storms or any other reason can be a true inconvenience, especially if it lasts more than a few days. However, being prepared by following the above listed tips can help you weather the storm and stay safe until your power is restored.
