How to Stay Safe During a Power Outage

02 Feb How to Stay Safe During a Power Outage

You can not control the weather- but you can take safety measures to protect your family home against the threat and hazards of power outages. If severe weather or intense winter chill hits unexpectedly, power outages can be dangerous if you are not prepared. However, if you’re already in the dark, there are still steps you can take to keep everyone safe until your power is restored.

Stay Safe

Staying home and indoors is the best way for you to stay safe during a power outage. consider the following tips to cope during an unexpected or extended power outage:

• Get the essentials. In case the power outage lasts a few days, it’s important o have the following items on hand:
  • Three to seven-say supply food and water (per person)
  • Flashlight and extra batteries
  • Battery-powered radio
  • First-aid supplies
  • Extra medicine
• Conserve Power. When the storm is approaching or lights are already out, consider unplugging or turning off electronics and small appliances.
• Protect your water supply. Some water purification systems may not function when the power goes out. Bottled, boiled, or treated water is safe for drinking, cooking, and personal hygiene purposes. Check with local officials to ensure your water is safe to drink.
• Protect your food supply. Remember to keep freezer and refrigerator doors closed as much as possible to maintain the cold temperatures. During a power outage, food will stay cold for about four hours in an unopened fridge and about 48 hours in a full, closed freezer- 24 hours if it is half full. If necessary, fill coolers with ice to keep food from spoiling.
• Maintain a normal body temperature. 
  • If it is cold outside, layer up by wearing at least three layers of tops and two layers of bottoms. Look around your home for extra blankets, sleeping bags, and winter coats to help you warm up.
  • If it is hot outside, say cool, and drink plenty of fluids to prevent hear related illnesses, such as heat stroke and fainting.
• Avoid carbon monoxide. To prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, use generators outdoors only and at least 20 feet away from your home. additionally, do not use a gas stove or oven to heat your home.
• Check on your loved ones. When it is safe to do so, check in with people to make sure they are doing OK or find out if they need assistance.

If you need to make a trip outside, keep it as brief as possible. check with your local emergency authorities first to make sure it’s safe to drive or travel during severe weather.

Be Prepared

• Invest in a home generator. A portable backup power source can keep critical equipment like refrigerators, sump pumps, and air conditioners running during a blackout.
• Utilize surge protectors. A UL-listed surge protector can safeguard expensive electronic devices like televisions and desktop computers.
• Develop a family emergency communications plan. It’s important to have a game plan so everyone knows what to do and when. Decide on a meeting spot., identify shelter locations, and store the plan on your cell phone.
• Assemble an emergency survival kit. Account for your pets, too. The American Cross recommends having the following items readily available:
  • One gallon of water per day for at least three days
  • Nonperishable food to at last each person three-days
  • Flashlight and extra batteries
  • First-aid kit
  • Sanitation and personal hygiene
  • Copies of important personal documents
  • Cellphone with both wall and car changers
  • Pet food, supplies, and water
  • Emergency contact information for family and friends

These health and wellness tips for your work, home, and life- brought to you by the insurance professionals at SAVA Insurance.