Power outages usually occur without warning. When you’re caught by surprise, you still want to be prepared. Electricians recommend putting together a comprehensive kit to help you cope in the hours—or even days—after the power goes out. Here’s everything you need to remain comfortable in the darkness.

How to Design a Power Outage Kit

1. Put Everything in One Place

Instead of searching in vain for items that are situated throughout the house, place everything that you need in a single container. One with a weather-proof cover is a perfect option in case you need to evacuate. Make sure that it’s large enough to hold everything but that you can easily lift it up, either on your own or with assistance from a family member.

2. Add Basic Items You Need

As a general rule of thumb, it’s a smart idea to have enough water and snacks on hand to stay satiated when you can’t cook meals. Set aside a large package of water bottles for use only during a power outage. Make sure that the snacks are non-perishable and have expiry dates well into the future. You should also add a first aid kit and medications. Make sure that you have your electrician’s number on hand, too, if there’s a problem with your home wiring or circuit breaker.

3. Have Enough Light Sources Available

It’s frustrating to be caught in the darkness without enough flashlights on hand. Make sure that you have several—at least one for everyone in the house—along with other sources of light. Headlamps are popular for people who want an easy way to brighten their paths. Candles are another helpful option. 

4. Stock Up on Necessary Batteries

You’ll inevitably need batteries at some point if the power stays out for a while. Make sure that you have enough AA and AAA batteries on hand to supply power to radios, flashlights, and portable fans. Add a portable battery for your devices, like smartphones and tablets, so that you don’t lose valuable connection during the outage.

5. Invest in an Emergency Radio

Emergency radios are excellent to have on hand when the power goes out. The best models for outages are battery-powered but also work with solar energy and hand cranking. You can use the radio to check on the latest weather updates and stay up to date about any emergencies.

 

If your power outage is the result of a localized problem, turn to the electricians at Cedar Park Electric. Proudly serving homeowners throughout Cedar Park, TX, the company can repair faulty home wiring, inspect the quality of your circuit breaker, and make sure that your devices are safeguarded with surge protection. Visit them online to learn about their services, or call (512) 965-6789 to schedule an appointment.