Power outages range from brief inconveniences to severe, prolonged frustrations, and it's always important to be prepared for the worst. Having a 24-hour electrician on call is key, especially if yours is the only affected home in the neighborhood. Beyond checking off all the appropriate preparatory measures, there are a few steps you should take to keep your family safe during outages. 

If the power outage in question is widespread, the first thing you will want to do is stay put. Unless it's completely necessary, traveling at any time will be more hazardous than usual due to non-functioning traffic lights and congested roads. Take all necessary precautions at home as well, especially when handling temporary lighting solutions. Go for flashlights rather than candles, which just end up adding another hazard to the equation. 

While the power is out, you'll want to unplug and switch off all electronics, appliances, and other electrical equipment. It's okay to leave a light on—that's the easiest way to tell when you have electricity again—but leaving a bunch of items connected could lead to hazardous surges when the power returns. It's essential to practice extreme caution if and when you operate a generator, too. Know all of the risks involved, including carbon monoxide poisoning, and follow the manufacturer's safety guidelines every step of the way.

Food safety is also a concern during power outages. If the power is out for a couple of hours, you won't have to worry, but once you start hitting a day without electricity, you'll want to have a backup plan. Go ahead and use any immediately perishable food, and store any freezer items in an ice-filled cooler for the time being. 

From navigating your home to the proper handling of food, it never hurts to be extra cautious during an outage. With the right level of preparation and the assistance of a 24-hour electrician, you'll have everything safely up and running again in no time.

Whether you're dealing with electrical issues or simply want to be prepared for any future outages, Bonham Electric is the electrical contractor of choice for residents and businesses in the greater Dayton, OH, area. Visit their website for more on their 24-hour electrician services, and call them at (937) 233-7662 to schedule an appointment today.