Safety Tips for a Power Outage
Power outages can happen at any time and it’s usually when you don’t expect it. Every home should have an emergency kit filled with things that you will need just in case the power is out for more than a few hours. Knowing the proper safety precautions to follow during a power outage can keep you safe during a very vulnerable time.
- Do not open your refrigerator or freezer once the power has gone out. The cold air inside can stay trapped for several hours, preserving the food within. Constantly opening the doors will cause your food to spoil at a faster rate.
- Do not use your oven as a heating source during the winter. Instead, put on a few extra layers of clothing to keep warm.
- Try not to use candles as a source for lighting, unless you remain close to its presence. Walking away form it can become a dangerous fire hazard. Use flashlights as your main visual enhancer.
- Head to the breaker box and shut off the power to specific circuits that appliances and other pieces of technology are connected to. It’s possible for a power surge to occur when the power is restored, causing possible damage to your appliances and belongings.
- If you have a generator, but it’s a portable model, place it outside of your home away from your garage. Running a generator inside or near your garage could cause a buildup of carbon monoxide.
Utilizing these safety tips during an outage can help you endure until the power has been restored. If your home has been damaged by a power surge, contact the experts at Lancaster Plumbing, Heating, Cooling, & Electrical. To learn more, or to schedule an appointment, give us a call at (717) 207-8198.