Power outages can happen anytime and anywhere. Typically, outages occur due to severe weather situations, but not always. When the power goes out, it can take days or even weeks for it to come back on, which can be very stressful. So, before the next outage you need to know some basic guidelines to staying safe and knowing what items to have on hand. Read on about power outages and being prepared.
Below Are Some Helpful Tips to Safely Surviving Power Outages, but Not Limited to:
Prepare an emergency kit- If the power goes out, it may seem fun for a while (short while), but you need to have an emergency kit for situations where the power may be out for days and/or weeks. Below are some basic items to have in your home should there be an extended power outage:
- Bottled waters
- Nonperishable foods
- Battery operated radio
- Flashlights
- Napkins, paper products, plastic cutlery
- Matches
- Kindling wood and fuel for fires
- Hand sanitizer
- Batteries
- Manual can opener
- Food thermometer
- Candles
- Cards and Board Games
Write down all important phone numbers- This should include neighbors, police, and public places such as a nearby hospital or library that could be used for shelters. If your cell phone battery dies, you will need to have those numbers handy. You can check to see if they have power and can access that location to charge your electronics and contact your loved ones.
Check on neighbors- If the power goes out for any length, you should check on any neighbor(s) or loved ones that are elderly, on oxygen, or have health issues to ensure they are okay, and offer assistance if needed. If there seems to be an undetermined time an outage is expected, FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) recommends going to another location that has power if possible. Always let your loved ones and neighbors know your location.
Consider cooking options- If your stove is electric, you won’t be able to cook; however, if you have a gas stove or grill, you are in luck. You will need to manually light the gas stove with a match or lighter since the igniter button is electric. Make sure if you are using a gas grill that you have plenty of propane in the tank.
Consider food safety- If the power goes out that means your food in the refrigerator and freezer are in jeopardy. Try to avoid opening and closing the refrigeration doors as that lets out cold air. Once you have cooked food, it will need to be disposed of after two hours since there isn’t refrigeration. By using a food thermometer, throw out any food that has a temperature higher than 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
Plan for weather conditions- If it is winter, you need to have plenty of warm blankets and clothes. If you have gas logs, that should help to keep your home warm, but if you have a real fireplace, make sure you have plenty of wood, newspapers, and fuel to start a fire. Also you can purchase bags of ice and place that in a cooler on your porch or patio to keep items cold.
If it is summer, make sure you have light clothing, portable battery-operated fans, and make sure you stay hydrated with plenty of fluids.
Consider a generator- If you ever had to endure a lengthy period without power, you probably have considered investing in a generator. They come in different price ranges so do your homework and find one that fits your specific needs and budget. If someone in your family is on oxygen, it is highly recommended.
Be Prepared When the Lights Go Out!
You probably take power and lights for granted, until an outage occurs. Once the lights come back on, it is valued so much. Outages may always be stressful, but you can reduce the stress by being prepared and knowing how to keep your loved ones and family safe. If you have any questions or concerns regarding power outages and how to survive them, contact our offices at Cameron Group Insurance and we will assist you. Don’t wait! Call today at 845-627-2130.
