Tips on how to prepare for a power outage

Power outages are an inevitable reality that homeowners have to deal with from time to time. For the most part, outages are nothing more than a minor inconvenience. But what if an outage lasts longer than a couple of hours? A lack of electricity could affect your family's safety, health, and comfort.

It's always good to be prepared for the worst-case scenario. Use these power outage tips and tricks to ensure that you're ready.

Invest in Backup Power Options

Backup power generators can be very useful when power is out for an extended period. Consider purchasing one if you rely on power for medical supplies. For example, they're essential if you have medications that need refrigeration, oxygen machines, or CPAP machines. You can obtain generators from most big-box stores.

There are a few different types of backup power equipment available. The right option for you will depend on your needs. Whole-home generators can power your entire home with enough fuel. But, they will need professional installation. Small and portable generators are available as well for the essentials.

Create an Emergency-Preparedness Kit

Having an emergency kit on hand will cover your bases during an outage. According to the Department of Homeland Security, your kit should have enough essential supplies to support your family for up to 72 hours in the case of an emergency.

Here are some items the kit should include:

• Battery-powered or crank-operated emergency radio
  
• First aid kit
  
• Emergency whistles
  
• Dust masks
  
• Duct tape and basic tools
  
• Blankets
  
• Fire extinguisher
  
• Emergency matches
  
• Disposable dishes and utensils
  
• Moist towelettes
  
• Can opener
  
• Non-prescription medicines
  
• Cash
  

Some additional kit items deserve extra attention.

Batteries and Power Banks

It's recommended that you have multiple sets of batteries in various sizes. Examine important battery-powered items in your home and stock up! The most important device you'll need to power up is flashlights. More on that later.

Power banks are important, too. These portable chargers are designed to keep your smartphone charged when electrical outlets aren't working. Your phone will be an important source of information and communication, so have a few charged power banks in your kit.

Flashlights

While the go-to for many during a power outage is to use candles, this is not recommended. The last thing you want to deal with when you have no electricity is a fire hazard!

Instead, have flashlights available in every room. Make sure everyone has access to a portable flashlight. You can also invest in battery-powered lanterns for lighting up larger rooms.

Food and Water

As mentioned earlier, have enough food and water to last up to three days. If you have the means to stock up for longer periods, do so. Stick with canned foods that stay fresh without heating.

As for water, have several gallon jugs on hand for drinking. If you know that a power outage is imminent, such as times of severe weather, fill several containers and buckets with potable water as well.

An outage may not affect your home's water supply. But, that's not always the case. If you are connected to well water or live in a multi-story apartment, those systems require electricity to operate.

How to Prepare for Power Outage

There are several things that you can do to prepare for an outage. In addition to gathering the right equipment, the key to staying safe without electricity is preparing your home ahead of time.

Stock Up on Power-Free Entertainment

With our constant access to the Internet and television, it's not easy to go without modern conveniences! The worst thing you can do during an outage is to waste your precious batteries on entertainment items. Put your smartphone in "Power Saving" mode and turn to other things to occupy your mind.

Have some books, board games, and puzzles to pass the time.

Practice Makes Perfect

Does your family know what to do when the power goes out? There are several things you need to once the power goes out. This include:

• Unplugging items to protect them from a surge
  
• Taking out your emergency kit
  
• Powering up generators
  
• Securing your home to stay safe from opportunistic thieves
  

Perform drills with your family every once in a while so that everyone knows what to do in the event of an outage. Pay close attention to things you don't normally have to do. For example, do you know how to manually open your garage door?

Staying Cool

If the power goes out during the summer, you may be faced with another problem: excessive heat! Here are some things to do to stay cool:

• Use battery-powered fans
  
• Wear a moist bandana
  
• Stay on the first floor of your home
  
• Open windows for cross ventilation
  
• Wear light clothes
  

Prepare for those tips ahead of time so that you can stay comfortable no matter how long the outage lasts.

Preserving Food

Finally, there's the issue of food in your refrigerator. One of the best power outage tips and tricks you can do is make ice ahead of time. Fill large containers of water and pop them into your freezer. If you have a large chest-style freezer, this is the perfect place to prepare.

Leave those large chunks of ice in your freezer. When the power goes out, move them to the refrigerator to keep temperatures low for as long as possible. Of course, avoid opening the refrigerator to maintain safe temperatures.

Conclusion

It's never fun dealing with a power outage. Preparing ahead of time will ensure that your family can stay safe and comfortable. Whether you live in a disaster-prone area or not, staying prepared is a must!