In the event of a power outage, you need to safely move around your house in the darkness. You also need to keep your family comfortable without the heating and cooling systems of your home. There are other concerns with food and general safety, too. So you really don’t want to be figuring out what to do during a blackout right at that moment. Here’s how to cope when the power goes out:
– Use a flashlight and not candles as an emergency light source.
– Turn off electrical appliances and devices that were in use when the power outage occurred to prevent damage should the power return abruptly and cause a power surge.
– Leave a light on so you can tell right away if the power is back.
– Listen to the radio for information regarding the blackout.
– Survey any damage outside, such as fallen power lines.
– During hot weather, drink lots of fluids and wear breathable, lightweight clothing to keep cool.
– During cold weather, layer on clothes and quickly make arrangements to stay somewhere else, like in a relative’s home or in a hotel where there is heating available.
Food Safety
Prolonged power outages may affect refrigerated and frozen foods. Here’s what to do during a blackout to keep food fresh and safe for as long as possible:
– Keep from opening the door of the refrigerator and freezer as much as possible. If unopened, the fridge will be able to keep food cold for up to 4 hours.
– If you can make your meals solely from the perishable food items from your refrigerator, then consume those first before cooking food from the freezer.
– Always check refrigerated and frozen food for any sign of spoilage before eating.
– Use a quick response thermometer to get the internal temperature of food, which must not be higher than 40 degrees Fahrenheit to control bacterial growth.
– Save your non-perishable foods for later, when you’ve consumed all of the perishables, in case the power outage lasts for several days.
– If the power is still out after a day, place freezer items inside a cooler surrounded with ice.
Prevent Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
One of the main hazards during a blackout when alternative fuel or power sources are used is carbon monoxide poisoning. It is important to remember never to use any appliances or devices that use gas, propane, and charcoal – such as a generator or grill – inside your home, garage, or any partially enclosed space.
Call an Electrician
Knowing what to do during a blackout will help you and your family best deal with sudden power loss. If only your home or some areas of your home have lost power, the problem could very well be your own electrical system. Use TalkLocal to find a qualified electrician in your area to restore your power quickly.
