Emergency Preparedness: What to Do During a Power Outage

We'll share with you how to best handle a power outage to ensure the health and safety of you and your family.

As residents of Arlington, Texas, we're no strangers to severe weather that can lead to power outages. Whether it's a thunderstorm, high winds, or even the occasional hurricane, you need to be ready for a power outage. Preparedness will ensure the safety and comfort of you and your family. In this blog post, we'll cover some important steps to take and precautions to keep in mind during a power outage.

Stay Informed

Keep a battery-powered radio handy. Use it to stay updated on the latest weather forecasts and emergency information. This can help you make informed decisions about your safety during the outage.

Preserve Food

If you know a power outage is imminent, don't open your refrigerator or freezer often. This will help to preserve food for as long as possible. Consider investing in coolers and ice packs to store perishable items.

Use Flashlights

Avoid using candles during a power outage. They can lead to fires. Instead, use flashlights with fresh batteries to get around your home safely. Keep several flashlights in easily accessible locations around your home.

Unplug Appliances

Unplug major appliances and electronics. This will prevent damage from power surges when the electricity comes back on. Be sure to unplug televisions, computers, and kitchen appliances. Leave one light switched on to signal when the power has been restored.

Conserve Water

If you rely on an electric water pump, you may lose access to running water during a power outage. Fill containers with water beforehand for drinking, cooking, and personal hygiene needs. Reduce water usage until power returns.

Stay Warm or Cool

Depending on the season, a power outage can affect your home's heating or cooling systems. Dress in layers during cold weather and close curtains to keep heat in. In hot weather, open windows for ventilation and use battery-powered fans if available.

Stay Safe

Avoid unnecessary travel during a power outage. This is especially important if severe weather conditions persist. Downed power lines and debris pose significant hazards. If you need to go outside, watch for these dangers and report any hazards to local authorities.

Check on Neighbors

During prolonged outages check on elderly neighbors or those with special needs. This is particularly important when outages occur during extreme weather. Offer help if needed, and work together to ensure everyone's safety.

Have an Emergency Kit

Prepare an emergency kit with essential supplies. Be sure to include non-perishable food, water, medications, first aid supplies, and personal hygiene items. Keep this kit in an accessible location and update it regularly.

Stay Patient

Power restoration efforts may take time, especially after widespread outages. Utility crews work hard to restore service. Stay patient and follow any instructions provided by local authorities.

Conclusion

In conclusion, being ready for a power outage can make a significant difference in how you and your family handle the situation. Stay informed, conserve resources, and take appropriate safety measures. These actions will help you to navigate power outages with confidence and resilience. At Affordable Electric Arlington, we understand the importance of electrical safety and preparedness. If you have electrical issues during a power outage or need help with generator installation, reach out. Stay safe, Arlington!