How to Prepare Your Home for a Power Outage
We’re no strangers to strange weather. As usual this time of year it has been blowing up from the gulf. We want to make sure you all are prepared just in case one of these storms unexpectedly cause blackouts for any extended period of time. While some may last only a few minutes, others can go on for hours or even days. Being prepared helps you maintain comfort and safety in your Dicharry home when the lights go out. Here’s a few tips to help you get your home ready for the next outage.
1. Stock Up on Light Sources
When the power goes out at night, reliable light sources are essential to keep things running smoothly. Make sure you have multiple backup lighting options:
- Candles: Affordable and easy to store, candles provide a quick lighting solution. Keep plenty of them in easy-to-reach places.
- Flashlights: LED flashlights are efficient and bright. Be sure to have extra batteries and power banks on hand in case the outage lasts several days. Each family member should have a flashlight to avoid scrambling in the dark.
2. Protect Your Electronics and Appliances
A power surge, which can happen when electricity is restored, can damage your electronics and appliances. Take preventive steps to safeguard your important devices:
- Surge Protectors: Install surge protectors to prevent damage to your electronics, especially high-value items like computers and TVs. Surge protectors also allow you to shut down equipment properly during an outage, which is especially important for businesses to avoid data loss.
- Unplug Appliances: During extended outages, unplug sensitive appliances to prevent damage from potential surges.
3. Secure Your Food and Water Supply
Without power, keeping your food safe becomes a priority. You can take simple steps to avoid food spoilage and ensure your family has enough water:
- Food Thermometers: Avoid opening the refrigerator unnecessarily. A food thermometer can help you check the temperature of perishable foods, ensuring they’re safe to eat. Once the fridge warms above 40°F for over two hours, certain foods may no longer be safe.
- Water Storage: Some water systems rely on electricity, and outages can disrupt the supply. Stock up on bottled water or fill clean containers with tap water. The National Safety Council recommends at least one gallon of water per person per day for drinking and basic needs. Make sure you have enough to last three days.
4. Cooking and Heating Alternatives
Without power, you’ll need alternative ways to cook food and keep warm during colder months. Here are some options:
- Gas or Charcoal Grills: Keep a propane stove or a charcoal grill on hand for cooking during an outage. Make sure to store extra propane or charcoal in case the outage lasts a while.
- Fireplace or Wood Stove: If you have a fireplace, stock up on firewood to keep your home warm. A backup heat source can make a huge difference during cold-weather outages.
- Blankets and Sleeping Bags: Stock up on thermal blankets and high-quality sleeping bags to stay warm, especially if the outage occurs in the winter. Thermal blankets trap body heat and can help maintain warmth even in freezing temperatures.
The hurricanes and tropical storms we get every year are inevitable, but with proper preparation, you can stay comfortable in your Dicharry home and protect family. From having backup light sources to protecting your electronics and ensuring access to food and water, a few simple steps can help you navigate the next power outage with ease. Take the time to prep now, so you're ready when the lights go out.