If severe weather and storms occasionally leave your home without power it makes sense to prepare yourself.
In 2020, there were hundreds of power outages across the United States. There have been more power outages since, which means it makes sense to be prepared.
Below, you will find some tips that can help you for the next time the power goes out.
Buy A Generator
While the cost of a generator might make you think twice about getting one, they’re worth every cent. A generator can potentially ensure that your entire house is powered even when the grid is down.
It is possible for you to buy smaller generators that keep essential appliances going. However, you can also buy large generators that supply power to your whole home. Just make sure you ask a good local electrician to install it for you.
When you know you have a generator to supply much-needed energy you’ll be less worried about the weather. Having peace of mind is a wonderful thing.
Install A Power Outage Alarm
A power outage alarm is ideal if you own a few properties. The alarm can send a message to your cell phone or your email address letting you know the power’s out.
When you receive the message you can take steps to protect all of your properties. You may also want to consider installing a few carbon monoxide detectors. Extreme weather can potentially cause carbon monoxide to leak from your gas boilers.
Invest In A Surge Protector
When the power has gone out it can cause potential issues. Issues can also be caused when the power comes back on. Protect your appliances by investing in a surge protector. You can divert the unwanted electricity into grounding wire.
Surge protectors can be ideal at helping to prevent appliances from catching fire. Consider investing in some before the next power outage.
Use Solar Energy
We’re all told that we should be a little greener. Using solar energy can help you to harness the power of the sun and become greener. In addition to this, using solar energy means you’ll be less reliant on the grid.
There is a real potential here for you to save money and still be able to power your appliances. Everyone else in your neighborhood might be struggling to power their homes. However, you can power your much-needed appliances thanks to the sun’s energy.
Create A Disaster Kit
When the bad weather hits, it makes sense for you to be prepared. While you may have a generator to help you, it’s ideal to be prepared for the worst-case scenario.
Create a disaster kit that’s comprised of:
- Flashlights
- Spare batteries
- Cell phones
- Cell phone charges
- A list of telephone numbers
- A first aid kit
- Emergency blankets
- 1 gallon of water per person
- A battery-powered radio
- Personal hygiene kit
- Medication
- Non-perishable food
- Food, medication, leashes, and toys for your pets
You may never need to use a disaster kit. However, it’s always worth having it to hand, just in case. Keep your disaster kit in a location that means it’s easy to grab hold of. Let everyone you live with know where the kit is.
If you have a large home, it might be worth your while having multiple kits dotted around the house.
Check Your Gutters
After a storm, it’s very likely that your gutters will be full of debris and leaves. Be sure to check them when it is safe to do so. If there is a lot of rain coming, having clear gutters means you’re less likely to experience leaks.
Climb up a ladder and check your gutters. Clean them out before the next storm so you know they’re less likely to cause you problems.
Know Where To Go
Where are you going to go when there’s a power outage? Will you go to your basement or attic? Perhaps you’ll spend time in a room in the middle of your home. Work out where the best place will be for everyone to spend time. You will have to stay somewhere safe until the bad weather has subsided.
Come up with a plan so that you and those you live with know what to do. When everyone knows what they have to do, everyone is more likely to be safe. Come up with a plan today so you’re prepared the next time there’s a power outage.
Use the above tips to help you to prepare for a power outage. While most power outages only last a few hours, some can last for days or weeks. Make sure that you, your family, and your home are protected. This way, you can have peace of mind while you stay safe.
