There’s never a good time for the power to go out, but you can bet if it does, it will be the worst timing ever. That’s just how it works. While nothing can change the fact that an electrical power outage is inconvenient and frightening, there are some precautions you can take so that if it does happen, you’ll be better prepared.
Here are 7 useful tips that can help:
- Be sure to have important phone numbers written down and put them in a safe and accessible place. When the power is out, you’ll have limited, if any time, before the charge on your phone and computer go out too. You will want to have the police, your local Sydney electrician, and family and friend’s numbers. Of course, the numbers will be of no use if your cell phone is dead unless you have a landline. So, if you don’t have a landline, keep your cell phone fully charged, especially during thunderstorms or times you’re more likely to have a power outage.
- Have an emergency outage kit that can be located in the dark. The kit should include some candles, a flashlight, alternative heat if it’s winter time (like a thermal emergency blanket), and a first aid kit. Be sure to have the contact information of your nearest emergency electrician, too.
- Have a family meeting and go over an emergency plan that will be put into place should the power go out. You’ll want to set a central meeting spot in the event it’s dark and there’s no lighting, especially if you have young children who would be frightened. You’ll also all want to stay out of the refrigerator as much as possible to retain the cold air inside. You’ll also want to conserve the cool or warm air in the home, depending on the weather.
- Address any medical concerns ahead of time. If any family members take medications, decide ahead of time how to handle those needs if there is no electrical service. Would your diabetic child be able to receive insulin? How would the insulin be stored if the refrigerator is out? Going over all the scenarios prior to an outage is always best.
- Purchase appliances that have can run on alternative energy sources, like propane, batteries, pellets, or wood. Heaters, fans, and air conditioners are especially important.
- Also purchase appliances that have surge protection built in so that the power outage doesn’t permanently ruin your electronics and other items. Those items may not work during the electrical services, but at least they won’t require costly electrical repair.
- Always have plenty of nonperishable and canned goods on hand. Refrigerated foods can go bad quickly. If your home has a water pump or well, you’ll want to be sure you’re stocked up with bottled water too.
If your power goes out, be sure to report it. You may have to go use a neighbor’s phone or drive to a friend or family member’s house to call it in. Never assume the electric company is aware of the issue.
Sometimes electrical outages are caused by storms, too many people consuming too much electrical service at one time, or malfunctioning of your electrical services. Other times, however, it is due to faulty electric and you’ll need a residential electrician, or a commercial electrician, depending on if it’s at your home or at your business. If you are in need of a Sydney electrician, give the pros at AB Electrical & Communications a call.
