A power outage can range from being a mere inconvenience to a critical emergency depending on your personal situation. That’s why it’s important to be prepared for a loss of electricity, particularly during extreme weather conditions. AA Electric, a Honolulu-based electrical company specializing in both home and commercial electrical services since 1947, has some tips on how to be prepared for a power outage:

Before an Outage

• Create an emergency kit with a 72-hour supply of food, water, and other household necessities.
• Fill up your gas tank. Gas pumps actually run on electricity, so they will not be working during a power outage.
• Know how to manually open your electronic garage door; otherwise, you won’t be driving anywhere, regardless of a full tank of gas.

During an Outage

• Use flashlights as a light source, not candles, which pose a fire hazard.
• Keep the doors to the fridge and freezer closed so that perishable food stays fresh longer.
• Disconnect appliances or turn them off to prevent a power surge when the electricity is restored.
• Flip the switch on for at least one light fixture so that you will know when the outage is over.

After an Outage

• Take a survey of your perishable food. Frozen or refrigerated food that has been exposed to temperatures higher than 40° F for more than two hours should be discarded.
• If food or beverages are still frozen or cold after the outage, use a food thermometer to determine if they are still consumable. No food thermometer? Use your best judgment; if there is a bad odor or discoloration present, then discard the food or beverage.

For all of your commercial or home electrical repair needs, visit AA Electric on the web or call (808) 841-4131.