Be Prepared: How to Survive a Winter Power Outage
Hey there! Winter storms can be tough, especially when they could cause power outages along with them. While we can't predict when a power outage will happen, there are steps we can take to prepare.
Here are seven tips to help you get ready for a power outage during a winter storm:
Charge up your devices before the storm hits. Make sure your phone, laptop, and other devices have a full battery so you can stay connected and access important information if the power goes out.
Keep an emergency kit handy. Flashlights, batteries, a portable charger, non-perishable food, and water are all essential items to have on hand in case of a power outage.
Fill up your car's gas tank. If the power goes out, gas stations may not be able to pump gas. To make sure you have enough fuel to get to a safe location if necessary, fill up your tank before the storm.
Insulate your pipes to prevent freezing. Frozen pipes can burst and cause water damage. To avoid this, make sure you insulate your pipes or allow a small trickle of water to flow through them.
Know how to shut off your utilities. If a pipe does burst, you'll need to turn off your water, gas, and electricity to prevent further damage. Familiarize yourself with the location of your shut-off valves before a power outage occurs.
Stay informed. Follow local news and weather updates to know what's happening with the storm and any power outages.
Have a plan in place. If you need to leave your home due to a power outage, make sure you have a plan for where you'll go. This could be a friend or family member's house, a hotel, or a shelter.
By following these tips, you can help ensure that you and your loved ones stay safe and comfortable during a winter power outage. Stay warm out there!