What To Do When The Power Goes Out During A Storm

Florida is well-known for its warm weather, beautiful beaches, and sunshine, but it is also notorious for its tropical storms and frequent power outages.

Even when it is not hurricane season, it is a great idea to be prepared for a power outage. Power outages are not always the result of a storm, they can be caused by other factors such as a tree falling on your overhead power lines or an issue with your local power grid.

While you probably have a stash of flashlights ready to go, what else will you need when the power goes out? Are you ready? Let’s see…

The Power’s Out, Now What?

Losing power is a serious problem and incredibly inconvenient, and it’s not just your lights and air conditioning that won’t be able to be used during an outage.

Think of all the things that you use daily that require being plugged in. Most are simple things such as your vacuum cleaner, garbage disposal, hot water heater (no one likes cold showers!), fridge water filter, microwave, phone charger, television, etc.

Here’s what you should do when the power goes out during a storm:

Invest in a Backup Generator

Stay cool! Most power outages in Florida occur during heavy summer storms and hurricanes. A backup generator can help keep your refrigerator and essential appliances running, even when the power is out.

Never run your generator inside your house. Ensure that the generator is properly ventilated at all times.

 Water

Fill up water quickly! If you do not have power, there is a good chance your municipality treatment center does not either. If you do not already have fresh drinking water on hand, quickly fill up any containers at home with water before it becomes contaminated.

Remember- just because the water from the tap looks clear, does not mean it is safe to drink. If you have pets make sure they have access to filtered water as well.

Food and Refrigeration

Keep your refrigerator doors CLOSED! Make sure to open your refrigerator door and your freezer door only when necessary. Each time you open the doors you are letting out cool air.

·        Fridge: Food will stay safe for 4 hours.

·        Freezer: A full freezer will hold its temperature for 48 hours. A freezer that is half full will hold its temperature for 24 hours.

Only eat foods that you know are safe from spoilage. If you must, grab what you need quickly out of your refrigerator (and keep it closed after that) if it is within the first 4 hours of your power going out. When in doubt, stick with canned foods, such as soups, beans, or vegetables that do not need to be heated up.

If the weather allows, remember you can cook outside on an outdoor grill. Never bring a grill inside due to the possibility of fumes and fire.

Have Batteries on Hand

Also, have backup batteries on hand. Gather all your flashlights, lanterns, and headlamps and use them sparingly if you do not have backup batteries to spare. If the power goes out overnight, it will be darker than you think!

Avoid using open flames, such as candles, as a light source. This is a huge fire hazard if left unattended or they get knocked over by children, pets, or just in general.

Prepare for a Power Outage

Preparation is key when it comes to a power outage. Once the power goes out, it’s too late.

If you know bad weather is coming, or your area is prone to more power outages…on a bad grid or overhead power lines…then you want to make sure to do some preparations now so you will always be ready.

·        Invest in a backup generator. Call the experienced electricians at Axiom Power, we are ready to install a permanent standby generator in your home today.

·        Have non-perishable food handy.

·        Stock up on clean drinking water. If you use a filter from your fridge, you will not be able to use the dispenser. Purchase bottled water or fill your bathtub with water to ensure you have enough water.

·        If you don’t have a generator to keep things running, have flashlights, lanterns, or battery-operated fans, and make sure you have enough batteries to keep them going.

·        We recommend purchasing a USB power station/charger that can quickly charge things such as your phone. Then, you’ll be able to read our great articles!

Keep the Lights on With Axiom Power

One of the best ways to avoid the problems and inconveniences associated with a power outage is to equip your home with a reliable backup generator. A generator can keep your house running when the main power grid goes out. Never worry again about losing power and staying cool or connected to your phones and communication devices.

Take the time to prepare now instead of waiting until it is too late. Call Axiom Power at 813) 308-9328 and let our professional, and knowledgeable electricians get your home ready!