What to Do When Your Power Goes Out
Power outages come at the worst times, don’t they? Not only can they be frightening, but being unaware of what to do can also put you and your family in a potentially hazardous situation.
While you may not know when the next outage will occur, there are several ways for you to prepare and survive an outage. Here are some simple techniques that you can utilize until your electricity comes back on.
Check the source of the outage
Outages occur for a number of reasons. For instance, you may have accidentally tripped the breaker by using too much energy at once. Instances like weather-related blackouts or a power line going down are also common.
The reason the source of your electricity going out is important is because your options rely on it. If you’ve caused the outage due to a tripped breaker, you can remedy the problem manually. Otherwise, it’s best to call your utility provider for instructions. Intervening with a power line that’s gone down puts you at risk of injury.
Carefully unplug your appliances
When the lights go out, there can be a power surge when they come back on. Because of this, you should carefully unplug appliances that require electricity, like your television, computer, etc. Unplugging them while the power is off prevents the later jolt of energy that can damage your property and even start a fire.
You can leave a light source, like a lamp, plugged in so you know when your power returns. Wait at least a few minutes, and gradually plug everything back in to avoid damage and potentially shocking yourself.
Always leave your refrigerator plugged in during a blackout. Cool air only keeps perishable items safe for around four hours. If you unplug it, it releases the cool air faster and spoils the food. Refrain from opening your refrigerator doors for the duration of the blackout.
Keep alternative light sources within reach
You don’t have to be completely without light during a power outage, especially if it lasts for hours. If you can, locate as many battery-operated light sources as possible. Flashlights and lanterns are great options because you can replace the batteries and not have to worry about fires like you would with candles.
You can also invest in a generator to restore power to your home. Find a reputable company, like Northern Tool + Equipment, that can help you choose the right one for your needs. Following usage guidelines is essential to keeping your family safe as generator misuse can be extremely dangerous to both your health and property.
While blackouts are inconvenient, there are simple ways to get through them. With the right preparation and safety precautions, you can keep your family safe until your electricity is restored.
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