Most home owners understand that the greatest way to deal with a power outage is to prepare for one. However, knowing what you need or what to do is not that simple. It takes more than a stack of candles to endure a long term power outage. In the modern world, there are many self-reliant tools that can make an outage much easier to handle.
Power Outage Plan: What to Do When The Lights Go Off
An Unusual Source of Light
All the tools in the world are useless without a source of light. Everyone knows it is a good idea to keep a flashlight and batteries available, but what most people don’t know is how to expand their light sources. One unique way to do this is to strap a headlamp to a plastic bottle of water with the bulb pressed against the plastic surface. The light will refract through the water and turn a one gallon jug into a brightly glowing lamp fit for any room.
Stay Informed
It is important to stay informed during a power outage to know what lengths you must go to when preparing in the dark. A self-powered radio uses a hand crank that generates enough power to use the radio during an emergency. A battery powered radio works just as well, but there is always the chance of losing your power source.
Keeping a portable generator on hand is a great way to keep power going to your most important systems and appliances when the lights go out. Consider getting one to have in your home—if disaster strikes, you’ll be glad you have it. You should only have your portable generator serviced by experienced technicians, like those at Lowry Services: Electric, Plumbing, Heating & Cooling, to ensure it stays in working condition.
Smell Gas? Run!
One important thing to keep in mind during an outage is that gas furnaces require electricity for crucial functions. Though the safety system will likely shut the gas off for you, there have been malfunctions in the past. During an outage, shut your gas off manually and leave it off until the power is restored. If you smell gas in the home, leave immediately and use your cell phone to contact the utility company.
Cell Phone Car Charger
Cell phones can be used to contact the power company directly to ensure that they become aware of the problem as quickly as possible. The power company will give you an estimate on repair times, and that little bit of knowledge is crucial in preparing for a short or long term outage. Be sure to keep a cell phone car charger in the house, or car, in case your cell phone’s battery is low. Car chargers are inexpensive, easy to use and completely self-reliant.
Not everyone is prepared when a power outage strikes, but many of the tools listed above are available somewhere in the average home. It is just a matter of locating what you need and knowing when and how to use it.
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