A power outage can make a home feel like a prison. You can’t watch TV or use the internet. You can’t cook dinner and you can’t read a book by candlelight.
While you can’t prevent blackouts from happening, you can prepare your home. Doing so can help make a power outage more endurable.
See below for a list of power outage tips to prepare your home.
1. Get Flashlights and Lanterns in Place
It’s important to make sure you’re prepared for a power outage. Invest in several flashlights with different levels of brightness and make sure they have fresh batteries.
Then place them around bedrooms, hallways, and the main living areas of the home. Have lanterns that run on LEDs or candles in places like bathrooms.
Have a lantern for the kitchen so you have light if you need to grab food out of the refrigerator or open a window. Check your flashlights and lanterns often to make sure the batteries are still good an
2. Find an Alternate Power Source
When it comes to preparing your home for a power outage, it’s important to consider alternative power sources. Here are some tips to get your home ready:
Invest in a Generator
Investing in a generator is an important step for anyone looking to prepare for a power outage. It’s best to research the different types of generators available and select one that meets your specific needs. You can book your Generac Generator Installation if you want to secure it by not going even a second without power.
When the power goes out, switch the generator on to provide electricity to your home. This will give you a reliable source of energy during a power outage and can be used to power your electronics.
Charge Your Cell Phone and Laptop
One of the most important things you can do to prepare is to charge your cell phone and laptop. Make sure to plug your device into the wall at full charge before the outage begins.
It’s also a good idea to keep your device plugged into a power bank if you have one. This way, if the charge drops, you can top it off quickly with the power bank. This makes sure you can stay connected and keep informed of updates.
Invest in Alternative Cooking Methods
Consider buying a camping stove, a solar oven, or even an old cast iron skillet to cook meals. Make sure to stock up on all the necessary cooking supplies such as oil, matches, and pots/pans.
That way you can cook meals for your family independent of a stove or power source. With the right tools, it’s possible to cook even when the power is out.
3. Know Your Medical Needs
When preparing your home for a power outage, it’s important to be aware of your medical needs. Ensure you have a full supply of any prescription medication that you take, as well as over-the-counter medication that you may need.
Have a fully stocked first-aid kit, including a thermometer. It’s also a good idea to make sure you have flashlights and extra batteries ready in case of an emergency. Make a list of emergency contact numbers and a way to charge your phone.
These quick tips can help you prepare for any potential power outages.
4. Protect Appliances and Electronics
Unplug Appliances and Electronics
It is best to unplug as many appliances and electronics as possible to make sure they don’t get damaged and/or cause a fire due to potential power surges.
Turn off All Light Switches
In the event of a power outage, any lights from light switches should be turned off. Doing so will prevent electrical hazards resulting from power surges.
Disconnect the Main Breaker
It is important to disconnect the main breaker from the power meter for that no electricity is flowing during a power outage. This will cut the possibility of shock hazards.
Install Surge Protectors
Surge protectors can help protect appliances, electronics, and other electronic components from power spikes and surges. Surge protectors should be installed and used with caution when dealing with electricity.
5. Be Prepared With a Disaster Kit
When experiencing power issues, it’s important to be ready. Preparing a disaster kit beforehand is a must. This usually includes battery-powered flashlights and radios, canned food, a first-aid kit, and a manual can opener.
It’s also wise to stock up on bottled water and keep it in an easily-accessed spot. A few blankets, sleeping bags, a supply of warm clothing, and plenty of fresh batteries should also be included.
It’s a good idea to create a list of emergency contact numbers and keep that in a visible place. By adhering to these quick tips, your home will be well-prepared for a power outage.
6. Occupy Your Mind
When the electricity goes out, it can feel like you have to shut down too. With the right approach and planning, however, you can use the power outage as an opportunity to occupy your mind and be productive.
Use the time to catch up on creative projects such as reading, writing, or crafting. During the blackout, take a walk, do yoga, or meditate; occupy your mind and body with activities that bring joy.
With these tips, you can make the time pass without worrying and turn downtime into something fun and productive.
Apply These Power Outage Tips Now
Following these quick power outage tips will help you best prepare for the inconvenience and give you peace of mind. Investing in a few supplies and understanding your home’s power panel will ensure you’ll have a safe experience if a power outage occurs.
Be proactive, not reactive; prepare for a power outage today!
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