In The Dark: Dealing With A Power Outage

All the sudden, your normal day is turned upside down, you are sitting in the dark, your computer screen just went blank and every appliance is now unusable. Losing power is a serious event that can not only put your life on hold, but affect different things like appliances, electronics, and food. This article explains what to do before the power goes out, and what to do when the power is out.

Before The Power Outage

Of course, the vast majority of the time you will not know for sure when the power is going to out. Sometimes though, you will have forewarning that a storm is coming. If that is so, make sure you have done the following in preparation:

• Restock preparedness kit with essentials like flashlights, water, and first aid kits
• Charge all battery reliant devices such as cell phones
• Invest in an alternative charging device
• Make sure you know the mechanical releases for anything electronic (such as a garage door)
• Purchase blue ice, ice bags, or create your own plastic bag ice packs to preserve food
• Fill your car with gas
• Review local emergency plans, local and state levels (if you live in a condo or apartment, speak with your landlord)

In order to be able to make preparations you need to keep up with the news and weather.

What To Do While The Power Is Out

Once you’ve lost power, you just have to make the best of it. Here are some tips to help you get through it without too much loss:

• Flashlights are preferable to candles (can cause fire hazards)
• Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible
• If it is hot, spend as much time in air conditioned buildings as possible and drink lots of water to stay hydrated even if you don’t feel hot or thirsty
• Wear plenty of layers if it is cold and consider moving to a warm sleeping place
• Turn off lights, appliances, and equipment in case of a power surge which can damage their systems
• Never run a generator in your home

Following this tips will help you survive a power outage with as little frustration as possible.

What To Do After a Power Outage

Just as there are several things you can do to help the power outage less painful, after power has been restored, keep the following things in mind:

• Check the contents of your fridge and throw away food that has gone bad
• If frozen food is still below 40° F or has ice crystals on it, refreezing it is fine
• Check medications, if you think they may be bad, contact your doctor
• Check electronics and appliances to ensure they work
• Restock your emergency kit for the next storm

Note: Most refrigerated food will be okay for several hours of the door remains unopened. A freezer can keep the food at appropriate temperatures for up to 48 hours.

The best way to prepare for the dangers of a power outage is to be insured against it. Homeowners Insurance provides coverage to your home and personal property within it. The power outage might not destroy home, but damages and additional living expenses if you must evacuate can cost you. If you’re interested in learning more about preparing and insuring against power outages and other natural disasters, please contact H&K Insurance in Watertown, MA. We’ll guide you through residential and commercial polices, and find the right one for your circumstances and location. You can also learn more by reading our free whitepaper here.