Homeowners get weather alerts on their TVs and smartphones when a storm is coming. Most severe storms increase power outages and define how long the outage will last. Steps for preparing for a power outage helps the property owner avoid dangerous circumstances and helps them keep their families safer in terrible weather.
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Purchase and Install a Generator
A generator provides adequate power for the home during a power outage. However, the homeowner has two options with generators, and they must choose either a gas-powered model or a product that uses solar power to light the home. Comparing the costs of each and the duration they operate helps the homeowner find the best product for their home.
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Buy Plenty of Batteries
Batteries are a necessity during a power outage and provide power for flashlights, weather radios, and even battery-powered lamps. Homeowners need an ample supply of batteries on-hand when a storm is rolling in.
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Stock Up on Non-Perishable Foods and Water
Non-perishable foods and bottled water are the best choices for a storm or power outage. It is best to choose foods that are pre-cooked and don’t require the homeowner to heat the food before eating. An ice-filled cooler keeps the water cold during the outage.
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Fill Up Your Vehicles
Homeowners need to fill up their gas tank just in case of an evacuation. Strong storm systems are often a cause for mandatory evacuations, and the property owner needs to leave as directed.
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Purchase a Backup Phone
A corded phone gives the property owner a backup option for contacting emergency services and staying in touch with family. Cordless phones are useless in a power outage, and the owner can use the corded phone even if the power is off.
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Lower the Temperature in the Fridge and Freezer
Reducing the temperature in the fridge or freezer keeps it colder until they restore the power. It lowers the chances of a complete loss of all the food stored in the appliances. It will also cause the freezer to generate more ice that won’t melt for several days.
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Make Your First-Aid Kits are Stocked
First-aid kits must be stocked with vital medical supplies. Experts recommended that homeowners replenish their medical supplies as needed. This ensures access to the supplies if someone is injured in the home during the outage or a severe storm.
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Buy Plenty of Flashlights
Flashlights are necessary for lighting the homeowner’s way through their home once the power is out. The size of the home defines how many flashlights they should have on-site. At least three flashlights provide emergency lighting during a storm and could prevent avoidable injuries.
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Keep Your Cell Phone Charged
Cell phones should stay charged before the outage. Once they are fully charged, the homeowner can use the phone to contact emergency services or family members. A car charger is an invaluable investment, too.
Homeowners must act quickly when a severe storm is approaching. Preparatory steps for a power outage prevent the homeowner from remaining in the door throughout the outage. If the storm lasts longer than expected, the owner could be without power for several days. Buying non-perishable foods and water helps the homeowner feed their family during the outage. Families that follow tips for preparing for an outage prevent injuries and keep everyone safer.
