When the lights suddenly go out and the power shuts down, it’s a jarring experience. It can leave you feeling confused and unsure of what to do. But don’t panic! A power outage or black out doesn’t have to be a stressful event. With a little preparation and planning, you can be prepared for when the lights go out. In this blog post, we’ll go over the essentials of what to do when power goes out or in case of a black out.
Check your Fuse Box
If you experience a power outage or blackout, it’s important to check your fuse box first. If a circuit breaker has tripped, then simply reset it and your power should come back on. However, if there is no response when you reset the breaker, then it could mean that there is an issue with the electrical wiring in your home or with the utility lines supplying electricity. In this case, it is best to call an electrician or your utility company for assistance.
When inspecting your fuse box, look for any signs of damage, melted fuses, and unusual sounds. Also, check the labels on each fuse and make sure that none are broken or burnt. If you find any faulty fuses, have them replaced as soon as possible to restore power to your home.
Unplug Electronics
When the power goes out, it’s important to unplug your electronics, such as TVs, computers, and other appliances. Unplugging them will help protect them from any potential surges when the power comes back on. Additionally, it will help you save energy by not having them running unnecessarily during a power outage.
Keep your Fridge and Freezer closed
To ensure food safety during a power outage, be sure to keep your fridge and freezer closed. This will help keep the temperature inside cold enough to keep food safe for consumption. Make sure to check the temperature inside both the fridge and freezer, if possible, to make sure they are not too warm. If they are, discard any food that may have gone bad. Every time you open the door, cold air escapes and causes the temperature inside to rise. This will spoil any food inside quicker than if you left the doors closed
Use flashlights
When the power goes out, make sure to have flashlights handy. This will help you to see and move around in the dark. Be sure to use LED bulbs to get the most out of your flashlight batteries. Also remember to keep spare batteries in a safe place.
Be Careful with Candles
Candles are a great source of light in a power outage, but they are also a fire hazard. Always make sure to place candles in areas that are away from flammable objects and surfaces, and never leave them unattended. Be sure to extinguish all candles before leaving the house or going to sleep.
Use your Gas Stove sparingly
When the power is out, you may need to use your gas stove to cook meals or heat water. However, using it too often can be dangerous and should be done with caution. Make sure to turn the stove off after each use, as an open flame could present a fire hazard. Additionally, always ensure the room is well-ventilated when using the stove, and never leave it unattended while it is on.
Stay hydrated
Staying hydrated is important when the power goes out. Have plenty of bottled water and other non-alcoholic beverages on hand in case the outage lasts for an extended period of time. Make sure to drink throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
Conclusion
When the power goes out, it can be a hassle to manage. However, by following these steps you can stay safe and comfortable during a blackout. Be sure to charge your devices in advance, unplug electronics, use flashlights instead of candles, and keep your refrigerator and freezer closed. With some preparedness and patience, a power outage doesn’t have to be a major inconvenience. Contact us to get prepared!
