Power outages during freezing winter nights can be not only inconvenient but also dangerous. As your local concierge electrician, we’ve seen firsthand how unprepared homes can face significant challenges in these situations. Here are practical, actionable steps to ensure your family stays safe and warm until the power is restored.
Assess the Situation
- Check for Local Outages: Confirm whether the outage is isolated to your home or affects your neighborhood. You can usually check with your power company online or via a hotline. Here is the link to the Evergy Outage map: https://www.evergy.com/outages/outage-map
- Check Your Circuit Breaker: Sometimes, the issue might be a tripped circuit breaker. To reset a tripped breaker turn it all the way off and then return to the on position. If a breakers trips more than once without a known cause you should have a professional evaluate the circuit.
Bundle Up and Preserve Heat
- Layer Clothing: Wear multiple layers of clothing, including thermal underwear, hats, and gloves, to retain body heat.
- Use Blankets: Gather heavy blankets or sleeping bags to keep everyone warm.
- Seal Off Rooms: Focus on heating one small area of your home. Close doors and hang blankets over windows to prevent drafts.
Use Alternative Heating Safely
- Fireplaces: If you have a wood-burning fireplace, use it responsibly. Ensure the flue is open and the area is well-ventilated.
- Portable Heaters: Only use battery-operated heaters. Never use gas stoves, grills, or other appliances not designed for indoor use as they can emit carbon monoxide.
Prevent Freezing Pipes
- Let Faucets Drip: Allow a small trickle of water to run through faucets. This helps relieve pressure in the pipes and prevents freezing.
- Open Cabinet Doors: Open doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate around pipes.
Light the Way Safely
- Use Flashlights or Battery-Powered Lanterns: Avoid using candles to reduce the risk of fire.
- Keep Extra Batteries Handy: Stockpile batteries for your flashlights and other essential devices.
Preserve Food and Water
- Limit Fridge/Freezer Access: Open the refrigerator and freezer only when necessary to keep food cold longer. Food can stay safe for up to 4 hours in the fridge and up to 48 hours in a full freezer.
- Stock Emergency Water: If you rely on an electric pump, store extra water for drinking and basic needs.
Plan for Communication
- Charge Devices in Advance: Keep phones and power banks fully charged before a storm hits.
- Use a Battery-Powered Radio: Stay updated on weather alerts and outage information if your mobile network fails.
Invest in Long-Term Solutions
- Backup Generators: Consider installing a whole-home generator to keep essential systems running during outages. Portable generators can also help but must be used outdoors with proper ventilation.
- Surge Protectors: Protect sensitive electronics from power surges that may occur when electricity is restored.
- Electrical System Upgrades: An updated electrical panel or additional circuits can prevent overloads and improve your home’s resilience during extreme weather.
Know When to Call for Help
If you suspect any electrical damage or unusual issues when the power returns, call a licensed electrician immediately. Safety should always be your top priority and if you have downed lines or suspect a dangerous situation call 911 immediately.
Winter power outages can be challenging, but with the right preparation and response, you can keep your family safe and comfortable. As your local concierge electrician, we are here to help ensure your home’s electrical system is ready for whatever winter throws your way. Contact us today with any questions or concerns you have!