Power outages in the United States have been on the rise in recent decades, due in large part to the outdated and rundown power grids across the country. Some power lines date all the way back to the 1880s, while many modern power grids across the country were built in the 1950s and 1960s. According to an analysis conducted by date scientists, America has more power outages each year than any other developed country in the world. 

With this in mind, it’s important to realize that at some point you are more likely than not to face a power outage. Just because our local power grids may not be prepared to face a blackout, doesn’t mean that you can’t be! Whether there’s a weather warning that causes you to begin preparing or the power shuts off unexpectedly, here are five things to know to help you navigate through the power outage until power is restored.

1. Have a Backup Power Source

The best way to be prepared for a power outage is to have a backup battery power station like the HomePower ONE. The HomePower ONE portable power station can keep your home appliances operating and your communication devices charged. When fully charged, the HomePower ONE will maintain its battery for at least one year if gone unused. That means even when a power outage unexpectedly hits, your power station will be ready to use. 

2. Use a Cooler for Necessities

If you don’t have an emergency backup battery generator to keep your refrigerator running, there are still ways you can use the items inside without letting all the cool air out. Think about the items your family will need the most and make one trip into the refrigerator to grab those necessary items. Set up a cooler with any ice, ice packs, or frozen vegetables you have that can act to keep items cold for as long as possible. Keep them in the cooler for easy access throughout the day, and avoid accessing the refrigerator until the power comes back on. If there’s no weather emergency and it’s colder outside than inside, you can even put the cooler outside your door.

3. Unplug Other Appliances

While the power is out, go around your home and identify electrical appliances that you will not be charging with your backup battery power station. Unplug these appliances from their outlets in order to prevent an electrical surge when the power is restored. Having many heavy-duty appliances suddenly turn on all at once can overload your power circuits, which can cause the power to go out again, damage appliances, or in the worst-case scenario become a fire hazard. 

4. Try to Stay Home

Depending on the circumstances that have caused the power outage, it is encouraged that you stay home. Power outages caused by winter storms, heavy rain, or other weather emergencies can be accompanied by unsafe driving conditions and dangerous roads. Additionally, power outages can wreak havoc on neighborhoods by eliminating traffic lights, street lamps, and even gas pumps. If your home becomes unsafe and you need to travel, use immense caution and have a plan to safely get there.

5. Don’t Leave Candles Unattended

It’s not an uncommon thought to immediately turn to candles for a light source when the power goes out. Although it may seem like the most logical way to keep your home aglow, it can actually turn into a more dangerous situation than leaving sections of your home dark. If your family is gathered in one room, find a safe location to keep the candles lit and out of reach of children, pets, or anything else that can accidentally knock them over. When your family moves to a different room or goes to bed, ensure that every candle has properly been blown out. When traveling between rooms, use flashlights or glow sticks to lead the way. 

Summary

Power outages can occur even when there isn’t a severe weather warning. It’s always best to be as prepared as possible, which means you should invest in a portable power station like the HomePower ONE. With its ability to stay fully charged for at least a year, you’ll always be prepared for even the most unexpected outages. If you can’t power your refrigerator with a backup battery generator, avoid going in it by setting up a cooler of necessities for your family to access instead. Unplug any unused appliances to prevent a power surge when the power comes back on, and never leave candles unattended, especially overnight. Since power outages can affect traffic lights and street lamps, it’s best to stay in place at home unless there is an emergent reason to leave. For even more tips about being prepared for a power outage, check out other articles on our blog!

About Geneverse: Geneverse (formerly Generark) is the most reliablesolar generator and source of emergency backup power for your home and community. From theHomePower backup battery power station providing portable access to electricity, to theSolarPowersolar panels as a source for recharging, never be disconnected from what matters most to you. Learn more about how Geneverse and its industry-leading 5-year limited warranty can bring protection and security to your family ongeneverse.com. Never face a power outage alone, and power your home with a solar generator from Geneverse.