Long power outages can happen unexpectedly and leave you and your family scrambling to see the light. Whether the outage is caused by severe weather, failures with infrastructure, or other emergencies, being prepared can make all the difference.
Here is a guide to help you understand what to expect during extended blackouts and how to make sure that your home and family stay safe and comfortable.
What to Expect during a Long Power Outage
Power outages that last more than a few hours can bring various challenges:
- The heating and cooling systems in your home will stop working, making temperature regulation difficult and putting you at risk in extreme weather conditions.
- With the fridge not connected to power, food inside may last only four to six hours, and medications or devices that need to be refrigerated may become unusable.
- Phone and internet services could be disrupted, causing communication problems.
- If you rely on a pump system for water, it may not be accessible.
Overall, power outages can create dangerous and stressful situations to be in if you aren’t prepared.
Steps You Can Take to Prepare
1. Stock Up on Essential Supplies
Build a stockpile of enough supplies to last each member of your family at least 72 hours. Your stockpile should include nonperishable food that can easily be prepared at home, as well as a gallon of water per person per day. Keep plenty of candles, flashlights, and batteries, and it would be smart to include a first-aid kit. While you can opt for advanced gear, make sure that you have the essentials to meet your basic needs.
2. Invest in Alternative Power Sources
There are various options for portable generators and solar-powered chargers that can keep vital electronics charged. Be sure to store extra fuel safely if you are using a gas generator, and only operate it outdoors.
3. Prepare for Communication Blackouts
Equip yourself with a hand-crank or battery-operated radio to help you stay informed if cell and internet services are down. Walkie-talkies are a great backup to keep on hand to stay connected locally. Keep a list of contact information, and refer to resources like our Emergency Family Communication Plan.
4. Create a Family Emergency Plan
Plan ahead by designating a meeting spot, establishing communication methods, and practicing what to do in case of an extended outage. For more detailed guidance, check out our Ultimate Guide to Emergency Preparedness.
5. Organize Your Go-Box
The Black Sentry Go-Box is your all-in-one preparedness tool with tailored solutions. It comes preloaded with survival essentials customized to your needs, including emergency power sources, tools, first-aid kits, food supplies, and water filters. With the Go-Box, you can prepare for power outages with minimal effort.
Staying Safe during the Outage
During a blackout, focus on key safety measures like conserving power by limiting the use of backup power only to essentials and monitoring food safety by eating perishable foods first and discarding anything that reaches a temperature of about 40°F. It’s also important to stay warm or cool by either layering clothing or using cooling packs to regulate your body. And it’s crucial to avoid carbon monoxide risks; never use gas-powered generators or stoves indoors.
Conclusion
Long power outages don’t have to be stressful if you take the right steps to prepare. By stocking essential supplies, investing in reliable tools, and planning ahead with your family, you can face outages confidently and keep your loved ones safe. Start preparing today. It’s not just about surviving the outage: stay comfortable and safe through it!
Ready to prepare smarter? Explore the Black Sentry Go-Box here and take the first step toward peace of mind.