Even a brief power outage can be a big hassle for homeowners, and most come without any notice or time to prepare. If you don’t have safety precautions in place, a loss of electricity is troublesome and potentially life-threatening during extreme heat or cold weather. Use these tips to prepare for a power outage.

Purchase a Food Thermometer

Food safety is paramount after a blackout. Especially if the weather is warm, it will be more difficult to preserve perishable food.

Once the power comes back on, test the internal temperature of food stored in the refrigerator or freezer. Anything under 45 degrees is safe to consume, but you should cook and eat it as soon as possible. Toss out food that is warmer than 45 degrees and restock your perishable items.

Prepare Flashlights and Batteries

When you prepare for a power outage, make sure that you have a headlamp, lantern, or flashlight for every member of your family. Keep enough batteries on hand that you can power the lights for 48-72 hours.

Store your headlamps and flashlights in an easy-to-reach central location that everyone in your family can access. If your power goes out often, storing a flashlight in each room for quick retrieval is a smart precaution.

Use a Portable Generator to Prepare for a Power Outage

If you have medical devices that rely on electricity and have frequent issues with electrical outages, a generator will help you be better prepared for an outage. Generators supply power to appliances so you’re less inconvenienced until the power is restored.

A whole-house generator is a great investment for your home. The generator will immediately power on when the electricity goes out to keep your house comfortable and safe.

Have Screen-Free Activities Available

Many of us spend our downtime on smartphones and tablets, but preserving your phone’s battery power is critical during an extended power outage.

Take time to gather a few screen-free activities as you prepare for a power outage or severe weather event. Puzzles, magazines, books, and games will help to keep your family entertained until the power comes back on.

Prepare for a Power Outage by Planning With Your Whole Family

As you prepare for a power outage, make sure that everyone in the family knows what to do if you lose electricity. Assign a person to gather the pets and bring them to their crates or a central location.

Choose a room where the family will gather to check in once the power goes out. Planning ahead of time will keep everyone safe and make sure that all family members are accounted for during a blackout.

Second Opinion Home Inspections offers inspection services to customers in Door and Kewaunee counties. Contact us to request an appointment.