Are You Ready for a Power Outage?
Here’s How to Prepare
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Whether it’s a winter storm, spring thunderstorm or any kind of extreme weather condition – power outages and lack of other services can often be the outcome. Although most power outages are very short, it’s best to have sufficient preparation for an outage of three days or more.
Here’s how you can prepare for the next power outage:
It’s a good idea to plan for a power outage of at least 72 hours. Consider preparing a duffle bag or plastic bin with the following items in case of an unexpected power outage:
Remember to restock any items used after an emergency situation. Also, be sure to review the contents of this kit seasonally (add it to your spring and fall checklists) to avoid items expiring. Replace batteries – even though they may not have been used, it’s always best to ensure that a fresh set of batteries is included in your kit.
Consult with an expert when choosing a generator for your home as this can often be a tricky process. If you plan to use a generator, make sure you install carbon monoxide alarms in the house.
A generator should be installed outside the home to ensure proper ventilation and to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. It should never be running in the garage or any room in the house. Alternatively, you may want to invest in a portable power station which can be used to charge phones or run lights or a radio.
It’s important to put the phone number of your power company on your cell phone as well as numbers for any local authorities. Create a family emergency plan that outlines safe exits from the home, meeting places and designated roles for family members as this will make for a quicker and less stressful response in an emergency.
It’s a smart idea to print and store a copy of your emergency contact list and family plan somewhere safe for easy access.
Have your phone fully charged if severe weather is on the way and invest in a portable phone charger so you don’t have to worry about using a power outlet to charge your device. Disconnect all surge-prone electronics i.e. laptops, TVs, certain home appliances such as toasters and microwaves before a storm hits as they can get damaged if the power spikes.
Consider using surge protectors for your key electronic devices.
Food can remain cool in a refrigerator for up to four hours and a freezer for up to 48 hours if fully stocked. If a freezer is only half-full, it may keep contents cold for up to 24 hours.
Tip: In the event of a power outage, purchase bags of ice and place them in your freezer to help keep temperatures down and preserve the food in there for a longer period of time.
If your garage door operates on power, make sure you’re aware of where the door’s release lever is located. It’s important to test it out manually without using the power function. You’ll need to know this if your car is parked in the garage and you want to access it during the power outage.
It’s essential to keep your car’s gas tank full in advance of any extreme weather conditions.
Don’t forget to:
If you have questions or concerns about how a power outage may impact your comfort at home, or if your heating or cooling system is not working properly after an outage, call Reliance, 24/7/365 at 1-888-837-1451.
Many of our locations have been awarded Best of HomeStars