Power outages can happen unexpectedly due to storms, accidents, or problems with the electrical grid. While most outages are short-lived, knowing how to protect your home and stay safe is essential. This guide shares key power outage safety tips for safeguarding electronics, managing your home, and ensuring a smooth recovery once power returns.
Unplug Sensitive Electronics
Electrical surges often occur when power is restored. These spikes can damage computers, TVs, gaming consoles, and home entertainment systems.
Tips to Protect Electronics:
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Unplug devices: Disconnect all sensitive electronics as soon as the power goes out.
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Use surge protectors: Surge protectors offer extra protection, but unplugging devices during an outage provides the safest option.
Use Generators Safely
Generators help during extended outages but can be dangerous if misused. Risks include carbon monoxide poisoning, electrical shocks, and fire hazards.
Generator Safety Tips:
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Operate outdoors: Keep generators at least 20 feet from your home, doors, and windows.
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Choose proper extension cords: Use heavy-duty, outdoor-rated cords rated for the appliance wattage.
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Install a transfer switch: A licensed electrician can install a transfer switch to prevent backfeeding, which can endanger utility workers.
Keep Refrigerators and Freezers Closed
Minimizing the number of times you open your fridge or freezer preserves cold air. Refrigerators can keep food cold for hours, while freezers may maintain temperature up to 48 hours if doors remain closed.
Food Safety Tips:
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Limit door openings: Only open when absolutely necessary.
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Use a cooler: If the outage lasts long, store essential items in an ice-filled cooler for easy access.
Stay Informed and Keep Devices Charged
Outages can cut off access to news and emergency alerts. Maintaining communication is vital for safety.
How to Stay Connected:
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Charge devices ahead of time: Keep phones, tablets, and backup battery packs fully charged.
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Use a battery-powered radio: A hand-crank or battery-powered radio can provide updates if digital devices fail.
Reset Circuits and Breakers Safely
After power returns, tripped breakers may leave some circuits off. Resetting them requires care to avoid damage or surges.
Resetting Tips:
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Turn off appliances and lights first: This prevents a sudden surge when breakers are flipped.
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Locate your electrical panel: Identify breakers in the “off” position or between “on” and “off.”
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Reset tripped breakers: Flip each breaker fully off, then back to on. If it trips immediately, call a licensed electrician.
Inspect Your Electrical System
Check your electrical system for signs of damage once power is restored. Early detection can prevent future hazards.
Inspection Tips:
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Check appliances and electronics: Avoid using anything that appears damaged until it’s inspected.
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Watch for unusual signs: Flickering lights, buzzing noises, or burning smells from outlets indicate potential electrical issues. Turn off devices and call an electrician.
Power outages can be more than an inconvenience—they can pose serious safety risks. Following these power outage safety tips, such as unplugging electronics, using generators safely, and inspecting your electrical system, helps protect your home and family. Stay prepared with essential tools, knowledge, and professional support. For any concerns about your home’s electrical system after an outage, contact Jason Wright Electric to have a qualified electrician assess and resolve issues.