Preparing for a power outage ahead of time can help you weather the storm safely. By following these tips, you can keep yourself and your family safe during a power outage.
How to prepare for power outages
One of the inconveniences of living in an area that is prone to power outages is that you have to be prepared for them. Here are some tips on how to prepare for a power outage: 1. Keep a flashlight handy. This is probably the most essential item you will need during a power outage. 2. Charge your cell phone or other portable devices ahead of time so you can use them if the power is out. 3. Fill up your gas tank in case you need to use your car for transportation or to generate power. 4. Have cash on hand in case ATMs are not working. 5. Stock up on non-perishable food items and water. 6. If you have a fireplace, make sure you have plenty of wood or coal. 7. Know how to manually open your garage door in case the power is out. 8. Have candles and matches available. 9. Turn your refrigerator and freezer to their coldest settings before the power outage so food will stay fresh longer. 10. If you rely on medical equipment that requires electricity, make sure you have a backup plan.
What to do when the power goes out
If the power goes out, there are a few things you can do to stay safe and comfortable. First, if it is dark outside, find a flashlight and keep it handy. If you have candles, make sure to keep them in a safe place away from anything that could catch fire. It is also a good idea to have a fully charged cell phone handy in case you need to call for help. If it is warm outside, open windows to let in air. If it is cold, dress in layers and try to stay in one room to conserve heat. You can also close off any rooms you are not using. If you have a fireplace, you can use it for heat and light, but be sure to follow safety precautions. Never leave a fire unattended, and make sure it is fully extinguished before going to sleep. If the power is out for an extended period of time, you may need to ration food and water. Try to avoid opening the refrigerator or freezer too often, as this will let all the cold air out. Only cook food that can be safely eaten without refrigeration. And, be sure to drink plenty of water, even if you are not thirsty. In the event of a power outage, stay calm and follow these safety tips, and you will weather the storm until the power comes back on.
How to stay safe during a power outage
A power outage can occur at any time, often without warning. In most cases, power is restored within a few hours. However, extended outages can last days or even weeks. During a power outage, you will need to take precautions to ensure your safety and the safety of your family. Here are a few tips to stay safe during a power outage: 1. Use battery-powered or hand-crank flashlights for light. Do not use candles. 2. Listen to a battery-powered radio for updates from local officials. 3. Avoid using your home's telephone, as landlines will not work without power. Use your cell phone only for emergency calls. 4. Keep your refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible. A full freezer will keep food frozen for up to 48 hours, while a half-full freezer will keep food frozen for up to 24 hours. 5. consume perishable food items first. 6. Use coolers filled with ice to keep food cold if the power will be out for more than 24 hours. 7. Discard any food that has been exposed to temperatures above 40 degrees Fahrenheit for more than two hours. 8. If you have a disability or use life-supporting equipment, make sure to have an emergency plan in place. 9. Never use a generator, grill, stove, or other gasoline- or charcoal-burning devices inside your home, garage, or basement. 10. Follow all safety guidelines when using a generator. 11. Keep your cars filled with gasoline in case you need to evacuate. 12. Keep a list of emergency phone numbers handy, including the number for your local police or fire department, utility company, and poison control center.