Blackouts are never easy to deal with, but they can be made easier with knowledge. To illustrate this, we’ll take you through six steps you can take to stay prepared for a power outage. Many of them can be enacted immediately, so let’s get straight into it!
1. Utilize a Backup Generator
Backup generators assure you that even if the main electrical grid goes down, you still have something to fall back on. There is a vast variety of these on the market, so if you’re unsure where to start, begin with the dual-fuel generator guide. No matter which device you choose to invest in, you’ll be grateful for them during an outage.
2. Keep Torches and Batteries Close at Hand
One of the first things you’ll notice when the power goes down is the sudden lack of lighting. During the day, this isn’t necessarily a huge problem, but that all changes at sunset. Keep torches and batteries close by at all times to ensure you always have a source of light, as navigating total darkness can be a severe cause of injury.
3. Protect the Food in Your Fridge and Freezer
Your fridge and freezer aren’t going to stay cold forever once the power goes out, meaning all the food you have stored away is suddenly at risk. According to the CDC, refrigerated food should last around four hours without power, whereas frozen food could last up to 48 hours in a full freezer and 24 hours in a half-full freezer.
4. Keep Food That Doesn’t Require Electricity to Cook
We use electricity for almost everything, so it’s easy to forget how debilitated you may be during an outage. Many kitchen appliances you may ordinarily take for granted will no longer be usable, so you must keep food in your kitchen that requires no heat to consume. This will predominantly include canned and tinned goods that don’t spoil.
5. Leave at Least One Light On
It’s hard to know how long a power outage will last, even with professional approximations. The best way to know for sure is to keep one light on (preferably a lamp) so that you will receive immediate indication once things are up and running again.
6. Surround Yourself with Blankets and Thick Clothes
This may not apply to you if you live in a warmer climate, but it’s imperative if you rely on electrical heating. Ensure you’re stocked on plenty of blankets and thick clothing to stay warm throughout the outage. Sometimes blackouts can last days at a time, and even if you usually experience high temperatures during the day, the night may not be so forgiving.
Stay Prepared for Your Next Outage
It’s nearly impossible to accurately predict when a power outage may hit your home, but staying prepared is a sure-fire way to make the experience easier to endure. The tips we’ve offered today will help protect you and your family from the stress of a blackout.
