4 Tips to Prepare Your Home for a Possible Power Outage

Household electrical issues are inevitable but can be prevented if you ensure to have it regularly checked by your local electrician Central Coast. These electrical issues can cause bigger problems if overlooked.

On the other hand, a power outage is an even bigger issue that can be triggered by events such as storms, earthquakes, lightning, vehicle collision or a falling tree. Although it only happens once in a while, not having electricity for hours or even a few days can be very hard and uncomfortable. Most especially if it happens during the night when everything is literally pitch dark and no appliances can be of use. Now, if you're unprepared for these kinds of events, it could be very difficult to survive until the power gets back to normal. To help you, here is a list of tips on what you should prepare for a possible power outage.

Buy battery-powered LED flashlights

You're considered lucky if the power outage in your area happens in the morning when you still can see everything. But in case it stretches out into the dead of the night, you'll be cramming for a much needed light source. While there are other options such as candles and phone flashlights, buying a LED flashlight is the best option. Candles can help start a fire while phone batteries will eventually die. Also, your phone's battery should be preserved so you can stay in contact with your family and friends.

Now, why should you choose to buy battery-powered LED flashlights than the rechargeable ones? The answer is easy. Your rechargeable lights can eventually die down. However, the capacity of battery-powered flashlights can be easily replaced then it would go back to its optimal performance. All you have to do is to replenish your stash of batteries every now and then.

Unplug all your appliances and electronics

Protect all your appliances and electronics from any possible damage during a power outage by unplugging them immediately. The possible issue doesn't happen during a power outage but it does when the electricity comes back. The power surge is what makes your appliances and electronics vulnerable to malfunctions. However, you can prevent these power surges by installing surge protectors. These protectors help prevent the damage to any of your appliances when electricity is restored. If you are not familiar with them, you can ask your local electrician and have it installed immediately.

Stock water & nonperishable foods

It is always better to be prepared so you won't have to panic every time something happens. One of the most important things that you should always have is food and water. And since your refrigerator will not be working during an outage, expect that most of your perishable goods will be spoiled if the power is not restored in a couple of hours. During a power outage, you should also expect that groceries are either closed or the line is already way too long. So, having a stockpile of water, canned goods, cookies, and other foods that you don't have to cook is great preparation for if the power outage stretches up until a few days.

Keep a battery-powered radio

Battery-powered radios might be outdated but they are proven helpful during emergency situations. In Australia, there are local radio networks that broadcast emergency hotlines and information lines which you can contact especially during a major power outage due to a storm or any natural disaster.

Best be prepared at all times

Accidents and natural disasters are unpredictable. They come in the most unexpected of times so we should always be prepared. Now, aside from the few major tips above, it is also important to keep our phones charged. If you have power banks, you should also make sure that they are fully charged so you won't have to worry about it dying even before you can use it for emergency purposes. Remember to be alert and to stay safe.