Things You Should Do During A Power Outage

If your power is out, don't panic! There are a few things you can do to stay safe and comfortable. Here's what you should know:

Unplug All Electronics

It's always a relief when the power comes back on after a storm or power outage, but if you're not careful, your celebration could be cut short by a power surge! Unplugging all electronics will protect them from any potential voltage spikes and help to ensure everything in your home stays safe and functional. To protect against power surges, speak to your local electrician about installing a surge protection device in your switchboard.  

Find A Torch

It can be quite intimidating to move around in the dark but having a torch to light up the way can make it much easier. There are so many shapes, sizes and types out there, but its best to opt for a good quality torch that you can rely on when the power is out. Keep your torch in a place that’s easily accessible to maintain peace of mind you’ll have it handy when you need it!

Stay Away From Candles

Back in the old days, we’d always have candles and matches on hand in case of blackouts, but so many fires are started due to candles that it’s not worth the risk. Switch to a standby battery-powered lantern instead. Not only is this safer for your home, but it can add a festive or practical ambiance to any room. With their glows often imitating natural light, you can get the same atmosphere as candles without the worry. Move away from fire hazards and give yourself peace of mind knowing that your loved ones and home will remain safe.

Keep Your Refrigerator And Freezer Closed

Knowing what to do during a power outage can be overwhelming. To help keep your food fresh, remember to keep your refrigerator and freezer closed as much as possible while the outage is in effect. This will help to maintain the cold temperature and prevent food from spoiling. Check periodically to make sure that food has not gone bad. Investing in a thermometer to monitor the temperature inside your fridge or freezer during an outage may also be beneficial. Keeping fresh food safe with these tips increases the chances of having it still available when power is restored.

Check On Your Neighbours

Power outages can be more than just an inconvenience; they can also be dangerous for some, especially for your elderly neighbours and those with young children. During a blackout, it's important to check on your neighbours to make sure everyone is safe. Show them the courtesy of a friendly neighbour by knocking on their door and asking if there's anything you can do to help. Let them know you're there for them should they need anything - from lending a torch to offering shelter during extreme temperatures. By taking extra steps like these when the power goes out, we ensure that all members of our community are taken care of and looked after in times of need.

Consider Installing An Uninterrupted Power Supply Unit

An uninterrupted power supply (UPS) unit can help you avoid the loss of your computer work by keeping it running for a short time after an outage. You’ll have enough time to save and shut down your computer. A UPS unit can instantly switch to battery power in the event of a blackout, meaning that even if the lights go out, your devices can stay up and running. Furthermore, a UPS also offers additional outlets for surge protection.

Are You Prepared For A Power Outage?

Being prepared for a power outage is not difficult, but it does require some forethought. By following the simple tips in this blog post, you can be sure that you and your family will weather any storm - literal or figurative - with ease. To learn more about surge protection and UPS units, reach out to us at Ralph Ottmann Electrical via the contact form, or give us a call on 0458 999 017 —we’re more than happy to help!