What to Do When the Power Goes Out

Power outages can be a nuisance, but they can also be dangerous. Here are some tips on what to do when the power goes out:

1. Confirm that the power is out. Check your breaker box to see if a breaker has tripped. If not, and you know that your neighbors are also without power, then it’s likely that there is a larger outage.
2. Call your utility company. Let them know that you are without power so that they can start working on restoring it.
3. Turn off or unplug your appliances. This will help to prevent damage from electrical surges when the power comes back on.
4. Keep your refrigerator and freezer closed. This will help to keep your food cold for a few hours.
5. Use flashlights for lighting. Do not use candles or open flames, as these can be a fire hazard.
6. If you have a generator, use it safely. Only use a generator outdoors and away from windows. Do not use it to power your home’s electrical system, as this can backfeed power into the lines and injure utility workers.
7. Stay informed. Listen to the radio or TV for updates on the outage.
8. Be prepared for the cold. If the outage happens during cold weather, you may need to find a way to stay warm. This could include using a fireplace, wearing warm clothing, or staying with friends or family.

Here are some additional tips for staying safe during a power outage:

• Do not touch downed power lines.
• Stay away from flooded areas.
• Be careful when using generators.
• Keep children and pets away from generators and other dangerous equipment.

Power outages can be inconvenient, but they can also be dangerous. By following these tips, you can stay safe and help to prevent damage to your home and property.

Things to do during a power outage

In addition to the safety tips above, here are some things you can do to pass the time during a power outage:

• Play board games or card games.
• Read a book or magazine.
• Listen to music or podcasts.
• Tell stories or jokes.
• Do some crafts or puzzles.
• Take a nap or meditate.
• Just relax and enjoy the peace and quiet.

If you have young children, you may want to have some activities planned for them in case the power goes out. This could include coloring books, puzzles, or games that do not require electricity.

It’s also a good idea to have a plan for what you will do if the power outage is prolonged. This could include staying with friends or family, going to a shelter, or finding a way to stay warm and cook food.

By being prepared, you can make sure that you and your family stay safe and comfortable during a power outage.