Surviving Prolonged Power Outages

10/11/2019 (Permalink)

This could cause major damage to your home.

With the wind whipping, causing flash flooding and fallen trees, shattering windows, and damaging power lines in its path, we all fear the loss of electricity during a strong storm. Power can be knocked out for a few minutes or even seconds, but if enough damage is sustained, power can be lost for a longer period of time. Electricity provides us with many opportunities, from heating and cooling to preserving our refrigerated food. Without power, everyday tasks, such as communicating with others, storing food, and obtaining necessities, become more difficult. Considering the following tips in order to keep your family safe while you wait for the power to return.

Before the Losing Power

In the event of an emergency, you may need to utilize your cell phone. Without a method of charging, phone battery can deteriorate quickly, so cutting down on cell phone use can help to preserve the battery. One way to do this is to write down the numbers and addresses of important people or local hospitals ahead of time. Keep extra batteries at hand for electronic devices such as flashlights and radios. Preparing and eating food should also be an important consideration, as power outages take away our ability to cook or refrigerate food. To have food available, stock cabinets with items such as crackers or power bars that are non-perishable. Finally, have a back-up plan in mind for medications that require refrigeration in the event that your refrigerator is out of commission for an extended period of time.

During the Power Outage

Before scrambling to hook up a generator, remember that they should be as far away from your home as possible. Generators emit high carbon monoxide concentration levels, which can be deadly if the generator is placed within the home or garage. as high carbon monoxide concentration emitted from the generator can be deadly. Besides any electrical appliances being powered by the generator, all other electrical appliances should be unplugged, as they could suffer damage during power surges. Food inside of your refrigerator will spoil once the refrigerator loses its cool temperature, so it is crucial to keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed in order to preserve the food inside. Gas stoves can be used to heat food, as they can operate without power, but they should not be used to heat your home.

In the event that your home undergoes any serious damage, from flooding to ceiling leaks, call SERVPRO Hunt Valley in order to make it like it never even happened.