Do you frequently experience power outages in your home? Here is what you need to do!
Photos By: Stock Images
A power outage can be a very frustrating experience. Not only do you have to deal with the inconvenience of not having electricity, but you may also have to worry about the safety of your family and your property. In this blog post, we will discuss six steps that you should take when you experience a power outage. Follow these tips, and you will be able to weather this storm safely and efficiently!
1. Using a home generator
If you have a home generator, it is important to remember to never operate it indoors. This can be extremely dangerous, as generators produce carbon monoxide gas. Always operate your generator outdoors in a well-ventilated area, and make sure that it is properly grounded. If you must use electrical appliances during a power outage, plug them directly into the generator using a heavy-duty extension cord. Some home generator models come with a built-in circuit breaker, which will prevent your generator from being overloaded. Do not connect the appliances to a household outlet, as this could damage both the appliance and the generator. Be sure to turn off all appliances when you are finished using them, and unplug them from the extension cord.
2. Checking your utility poles
If you see downed power lines, stay away from them! Do not try to move or repair them yourself. Report the downed power line to your utility company immediately. If a power line falls on your car, do not try to get out of the car. Stay inside and wait for help to arrive. If you must leave your car, be sure to jump clear of it and land with both feet on the ground so that you do not become electrically charged. Never touch a person or object that is in contact with a downed power line. Utility poles are safe to approach, but be careful not to touch any live wires that may be present. If you see any damage to the pole, report it to the utility company.
3. Staying safe indoors
If you lose power in your home, be sure to turn off all appliances and lights to prevent a fire hazard. Do not use candles or open flames for lighting, as this is also a fire hazard. If you must leave your home during a power outage, be sure to unplug all appliances before you go. Keep your refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible to keep food from spoiling. If the power is out for more than a few hours, you may need to throw away any perishable food that has been in your fridge or freezer.
When the power comes back on, be sure to check all of your appliances and cords for damage before using them again.
4. Staying safe outdoors
If you must go outside during a power outage, be aware of your surroundings. downed power lines may not be visible, and they can pose a serious electrocution hazard. Be sure to stay clear of any puddles or standing water, as these may also be electrically charged. If possible, refrain from using any motorized vehicles during a power outage. Gasoline pumps require electricity to operate, so you will not be able to fill up your tank if the power is out. If you must use a vehicle, be sure to keep it in good working order and have plenty of fuel on hand. Also, be sure to pack an emergency kit that includes a flashlight, batteries, and first-aid supplies.
5. Keeping your family entertained
If the power outage lasts for more than a few hours, you and your family may start to get stir-crazy. Be sure to have some activities planned that do not require electricity. Board games, cards, and puzzles are all great options. If you have young children, be sure to keep them occupied with age-appropriate activities. If the power is out in the middle of the night, try to get everyone to sleep through it. A power outage can be a stressful time for everyone, so be sure to stay calm and collected.
6. Knowing when to call for help
If you experience a power outage, the first thing you should do is check your fuse box or circuit breaker to see if the problem is on your end. If everything looks in order, then you should contact your utility company. They will be able to tell you when power is expected to be restored. In the meantime, there are some things you can do to stay safe and comfortable until the power comes back on. Sometimes, power outages can be caused by severe weather. If this is the case, you should monitor your local news for updates and follow any safety instructions that are given.
A power outage can be a minor inconvenience or a major disaster, depending on the severity and duration of the outage. By following these simple tips, you can be prepared for whatever may come your way. Stay safe and be prepared! Do you have any other tips for staying safe during a power outage? Share them with us in the comments below!
