What to do When the Power Goes Out
Restored from the Empower Network archive (2011–2017), lightly edited to meet our current advertising standards. Views are the original author’s.
As much as I like to be prepared for the unexpected, it really sucks when power goes out, especially when there is a blizzard outside. Here in Atlantic Canada we often get hit by the pressure systems from Western Canada and from Eastern United States. Sometimes (like today) a storm comes in from both ends at the same time. A blizzard.
Thankfully power has been restored. When power went out, I realized it had been a long time since I checked for all the necessities. This list from 72hours.org is a great resource:
- Turn off and unplug appliances and computers. Leave one light on to indicate when power has been restored.
- Avoid using candles, as they are fire hazards. If you do, blow out all candles before leaving a room. Never leave a candle on while you’re asleep.
- Do not use a gas stove for heating or operate generators indoors (including the garage.) Both could cause carbon monoxide poisoning.
- If a traffic signal is not working, treat it as a stop sign.
And then there’s food. You should check to make sure you have enough for at least 3 days.
- Store food items that are familiar, rather than buying special emergency food. Consider any dietary restrictions and preferences you may have.
- Ideal foods are: Shelf-stable (no refrigeration required), low in salt, and do not require cooking (e.g. canned fruit, vegetables, peanut butter, jam, low-salt crackers, cookies, cereals, nuts, dried fruit, canned soup or meats, juices and non-fat dry milk).
- Mark a rotation date on any food container that does not already have an expiration date on the package.
- Include baby food and formula or other diet items for infants or seniors.
- Store the food in airtight, pest-resistant containers in a cool, dark place.
- Most canned foods can safely be stored for at least 18 months. Low acid foods like meat products, fruits or vegetables will normally last at least 2 years. Use dry products, like boxed cereal, crackers, cookies, dried milk or dried fruit within six months.
- After a power outage, refrigerated food will stay cold longer if you keep the door closed. Food should generally be consumed within 4 hours. Food in the freezer will normally remain safe for 2 days.
You never know when you’ll lose power but if you’re prepared, it will be a little easier to manage.
Source: http://72hours.org