December 3, 2015
Are You Prepared For A Power Outage?
Winter is around the corner and we can expect colder temperatures along with snow, ice, and the occasional power outage. As a kid, a power outage meant the fun of setting up a blanket tent in the living room, playing with flashlights and telling ghost stories. You may
be thinking about slightly different things now like how long the outage will last. Preparing for an extended power outage is the best thing you can do to be safe and comfortable in your home.
Lights and communication
Candles only work if you have matches or a lighter to ignite them, so be sure you have a good supply on hand. Check the batteries in flashlights and portable radios, then make sure you have a backup supply. Self powered flashlights and radios are worth the investment if you live where outages are more common. Camp lanterns are another option. Locate your cell phone car charger and be sure it’s in good working order. Check your first aid kit and include bandages, gauze, tape, scissors, hydrogen peroxide, antiseptic ointment, pain medications, and your prescription medications.
Food and clothing
Experts recommend that you have a gallon of drinking water per person per day on hand. Coolers can be used to store food from your freezer to prevent loss. Put them in a garage, basement or screen porch to keep the food cold. Canned goods, a can opener and non-perishables like peanut butter, crackers, and bread are easy options. Use a camp stove or your outdoor grill for basic food heating and cooking needs. Make sure you check the propane and charcoal. Stock up on trash bags, paper plates, napkins and plastic flatware. And make sure you have warm clothing that you can wear in layers, including hats, gloves or mittens, and boots in case you need to be outside. Remember to stock up on food and water for your pets, too.
Extras you might not think about
A full tank of gas in your car will be useful in case you need to charge a cell phone or evacuate. Remember, if you use your car to charge devices, make sure the car is well-ventilated outside or by opening the door to your garage. Have printed copies of your personal documents and a list of emergency, family, and work contacts in case your cell phone runs down. During a power outage, local businesses may also be without power so credit card readers will be down too. Have cash on hand in case you need to buy more supplies.
Don’t forget the good, old-fashioned fun of board games and playing cards to pass the time. And the blanket tents, too!