In the event of a power outage, you may panic and not know what to do to maintain your home and stay safe. Fortunately, with some knowledge and preparation, you’ll have the ability to see clearly on your property and continue your daily tasks. Below, electricians provide some helpful tips on how to handle a blackout. 

4 Things to Do During a Blackout

1. Keep Your Refrigerator Closed

When you lose power to your home, open your fridge and freezer as infrequently as possible. Keeping the doors closed will lock in cold air and prevent your meats, vegetables, and dairy products from spoiling. Keep in mind that you’ll likely need to throw out items if you lose power for more than a few hours. 

2. Fill Your Bathtub 

As soon as a blackout occurs, fill your bathtubs and sinks with water. If your city’s water supply also shuts off, you’ll still have plenty of water to use for drinking, bathing, and flushing the toilet. By preparing in advance, you should have enough reserve water to last until the city turns the water supply back on.

3. Watch Out for Carbon Monoxide 

If you use a generator in the wake of a power outage, do not run it inside your home or garage. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that is highly toxic and will seriously harm your health. It is best to keep them outdoors, where there is plenty of ventilation. 

4. Charge Devices In Your Car

If your phone, tablet, and other devices have a low battery percentage after a power outage, charge them in your car. Doing so will permit you to make emergency phone calls, report outages, and keep track of electrician repair dispatches in your area. 

Keep your home safely powered up with help from the team at RM Electrical. For over a decade, these electricians have provided inspections, lighting, rewiring, breaker box upgrades, and repairs to clients throughout Belleville, IL. Call (618) 939-0422 to schedule electrical work and request a quote. Visit them online to learn more about the commercial and residential services these electricians have to offer.