Power Outage Preparedness

Power outages can occur due to various reasons such as natural disasters, equipment failure, maintenance work or even human error. Regardless of the cause, power outages can be stressful and disruptive, especially if you are not prepared for them. It is essential to take some precautions and prepare for power outages to ensure your safety and comfort during these type of events.

Creating a family plan is a fundamental part of preparedness, and a power outage scenario is one of the most common emergency situations. Your plan should include what to do in case the electricity is cut off, how to stay safe during the outage, and what to do when the power is restored. Discuss the plan with your family often, this will help ensure everyone has a clear understanding of what to do.

Here are some ways to be prepared for the next power outage:

1. Stock up on supplies: When the power goes out, it can take hours or even days to restore it. Therefore, it is important to have enough supplies to last you and your family during this time. Some of the essential items to stock up on include bottled water, non-perishable food items, flashlights, batteries, and a first aid kit. Have all of these checked off? Great! Here's a list of other Power Outage Preps.

2. Invest in a generator: A generator is a useful tool to have during a power outage, especially if it lasts for an extended period. A generator can help you keep essential appliances running, such as a refrigerator, freezer, air conditioning or heating systems, and other critical equipment. There are a number of options available, with a wide range of price points: solar, dual-fuel, tri-fuel etc. Please follow the manufacturer's instructions and safety guidelines while using a generator.

3. Charge your devices: Before a power outage occurs, make sure to charge all your electronic devices, including your phone, laptop, and tablet. You should also consider investing in a power bank or a portable charger to keep your devices charged during the outage.

4. Keep your car's gas tank full: During a power outage, gas stations may not have power to pump gas. Even if you're storing gasoline or propane, it is essential to keep your car's gas tank full, as it can serve as a source of power for charging your devices or running a generator.

5. Stay up to date: Keep yourself updated on the latest information about the power outage. You can do this by listening to the news or checking the power company's website or social media pages for updates on when the power will be restored. Battery-operated/hand crank weather radios and walkie-talkies are great ways to stay in communication and remain informed.

Power outages can be disruptive and stressful, but being prepared for them can make the experience more bearable. By having a plan, stocking up on supplies, investing in a generator, charging your devices, keeping your car's gas tank full, and staying informed, you can ensure your safety and comfort during a power outage.