Power outages are an inconvenient disruption of daily life, but occasionally, you may find yourself without electricity. Whether the cause is a storm, equipment failure, or human error, losing power for a few hours or days is something every homeowner should be ready for. Here are a few helpful tips to prepare your home for a power outage so you and your family will feel more comfortable and confident if the lights go out.
Tips to Prepare Your Home for a Power Outage
1. Stock Up on Supplies
If you know a power outage is likely, make sure you have a few essentials on hand. Keep a stock of water, non-perishable food items, and a first-aid kit. Depending on the weather, you might want to have several warm blankets to keep everyone comfortable and warm. Make sure you have adequate emergency supplies to last several days — and don’t forget medications or medical supplies you, your pets, or your family members might need.
2. Prepare for a Power Outage with a Back-Up Power Source for Your Home
A generator and solar panels are ways to keep your home running during a power outage. If you’re using a generator, have enough fuel on hand and learn how to use it safely. Solar panels can be a more expensive option, but they’re also more sustainable and environmentally friendly.
3. Invest in Surge Protectors
Power surges can damage appliances and electronics, so purchase surge protectors for your most important devices. These work by diverting excess electricity away from your electronics, protecting them from surges when the electricity comes back on.
4. Know How to Open the Garage Door Manually
If you have an automatic garage door, you won’t be able to open it during a power outage. Make sure you know how to manually open the door to access your car or supplies you have stored in the garage.
5. Keep Your Phone Charged
Your cell phone can be a lifeline during a power outage, so when a storm is predicted, make sure your devices are fully charged before the lights go out. Invest in a portable phone power bank or a solar-powered charger to keep your devices running until the electricity is restored.
6. Prepare for a Power Outage: Have an Emergency Plan
Especially if you live in an area prone to storms, create an emergency plan with your family. Assign tasks and choose a room where everyone will meet if the power goes out. Make sure each family member knows where to find a flashlight so they can navigate safely through a dark house.
Power outages are a part of life, but they don’t have to be a source of stress. By following these simple tips, you will feel more prepared and confident if the lights go out.
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