Power outages can happen with little or no warning and may last anywhere from a few minutes to several hours or longer. While most outages are temporary inconveniences, they can also create risks for appliances, electronics, food, plumbing, and other parts of your home.
A little preparation can help you reduce potential damage and make it easier to manage an outage safely.
Protect Electronics and Appliances
Power surges can sometimes occur when electricity is restored. Unplugging sensitive electronics such as televisions, computers, gaming systems, and other devices can help protect them from potential damage.
For equipment that needs to stay connected, consider using quality surge protectors or a whole-home surge protection system. Once power returns, wait a few minutes before turning major appliances back on to avoid placing additional demand on the electrical system all at once.
Keep Refrigerators and Freezers Closed
A refrigerator or freezer can maintain a safe temperature for a limited period if the doors remain closed. Opening them frequently allows cold air to escape and can cause food to warm more quickly.
Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible during an outage. If outages are common in your area, a refrigerator thermometer can also make it easier to determine whether food has remained at a safe temperature.
Use Generators Safely
A portable or standby generator can help keep essential equipment operating during an extended outage, but generators must be used properly.
Portable generators should always be operated outdoors and away from windows, doors, and vents because they produce carbon monoxide. Never operate one inside a garage, basement, or enclosed area. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for placement, fueling, and electrical connections.
Consider Plumbing and Temperature Risks
During cold weather, a long outage can allow indoor temperatures to fall enough to create a risk of frozen pipes. Keep doors closed to retain heat, open cabinet doors around plumbing when appropriate, and monitor indoor temperatures if possible.
Homes with sump pumps, well pumps, or other electrically powered systems may also need backup power during longer outages. Understanding which systems depend on electricity can help you decide where backup power is most important.
Prepare for Extended Outages
Keep flashlights, batteries, portable chargers, and other basic supplies in an easy-to-find location. Charging phones and battery packs ahead of severe weather can also help you stay connected if power is lost.
It is also useful to know how to manually operate garage doors, security systems, and other equipment that normally relies on electricity.
Review Your Home Protection
Preparation can help reduce the impact of a power outage, but unexpected damage can still occur. Equipment failures, spoiled food, electrical damage, and weather-related losses may all raise questions about what your homeowners insurance covers.
Contact us today to review your homeowners insurance coverage and make sure your policy reflects your current home and protection needs.