Are You Prepared for a Power Outage?

With the spring season comes pleasant temperatures, budding plants, and lots of sunshine. But it also means the start of what is often an unpredictable storm season. With heavy rains, whipping winds and the possibility of hail, tornadoes and flooding, homeowners across North Central Ohio need to be ready to endure a power outage.

Whether the power outage is a few hours or weeks, it’s helpful to have a few supplies prepared in advance. That way, you and your family can get as comfortable as possible, stay dry and have food to eat—even if it means going a week without power.

Food and water

Perhaps two of the most important aspects during a power outage, food and water will help you to survive, even if you can’t get access to clean clothes or get out on the roads.

Here’s what you need to do to prepare:

• Store several gallons of water in a clean, dry place. Estimate about 1 gallon a day per person, and stock up for at least a week.
• If you have room in the freezer, store blocks of ice there. If the power goes out, you can use the ice to keep food cool—and safe.
• Know safety regulations for keeping food from spoiling. When the power’s out, for example, keep the fridge door closed as much as possible to limit food’s exposure to warm air. Keep a food thermometer on hand to check if food has spoiled. Ideally, food is safe at 40 degrees or lower.

Think about your family

Does someone in the family take special medications? If some of the meds need refrigeration, consider how to keep it cool. This is when those blocks of ice will come in handy. Do you think about keeping enough medicine on hand at all times? If power lines and trees are down, it may be hard to get to the store to refill prescriptions.

Power it up

Investing in a generator is costly; however, having a backup supply of power during a power outage is the best way to get through it. A small portable generator can supply power to critical systems (like a microwave or fridge) and help you comfortably endure the outage. Always keep fuel on hand for this purpose, so you can power up the generator on a moment’s notice.

Savvy area residents know the value of preparing for power outages ahead of time. It’s also wise to get insurance coverage in place before a disaster strikes. For more information about home, auto, life or flood insurance, contact the insurance specialists at Spreng-Smith Agency. We serve consumers, businesses and nonprofits in North Central Ohio.

Tell us: How well is your family prepared for a power outage?