Power Outage Safety and Preparation Tips

Make a Plan and Discuss the Details with Your Household

Schedule a meeting with your roommates or family members and create a plan on how your household will deal with power outages. Write or print out a copy of the plan and place it in an area where everyone can easily find it. While each plan will be uniquely customized, there are some elements that should be included:

• If you live in a townhouse, apartment complex, condo, or other multiunit residence, find out if there is already a plan made for such an event so it can be incorporated.
• How will you determine the cause of the power outage, and how would you handle various situations such as a thunderstorm versus an exploding transformer?
• Are there any special medical considerations for members of your household?
• How will you stay warm, keep food preserved, prepare meals, etc.?

Create an Emergency Kit

After your outage plan is completed, then it is also a good idea to create an emergency kit. If the power does go out unexpectedly, you don’t want to be wandering around the dark house looking for essentials. If you keep all the necessary items in one location, then accessing your tools and supplies will be quick and easy. Here are a few suggested items that could go inside your power outage kit:

• Manual or battery-operated emergency radio
• Lanterns, LED lamps and flashlights that use batteries
• Extra supply of batteries and fully charged portable power banks
• First aid supplies for medical emergencies
• Blankets and hand warmers
• Bottles of water
• Non-perishable food items that don’t need to be heated
• Books, board games, and a deck of cards to beat the boredom

Do You Need Reliable Local Electricians That Can Help You Stay Prepared? Call Mr. Electric

Are you concerned about the quality of your electrical system? Has it been a few years since your last inspection or upgrade? Then call the professionals at Mr. Electric today. We offer a wide selection of premium services for local property owners. Contact our staff for more information or to schedule an appointment for your next electrical safety inspection, surge protector installation or repair service.