What You Need to Know About Power Outages

A power outage can be challenging or frightening, especially when it’s accompanied by severe weather. Sometimes you have a chance to get ready, while sometimes an outage happens without warning. In some parts of the country, knowing how to prepare for a long-term power outage is just part of life.

But even though most of us have experienced a power outage, they can still be mystifying. What causes power outages, anyway? How do I report a power outage? Are partial power outages dangerous? And what should I do to make sure I’m ready?

Whether the seasons are changing, severe weather is in the forecast or you just want to be more prepared, here’s how to navigate a power outage with as much ease as possible. And to make sure that your home is covered no matter what happens, speak to a Farm Bureau agent about homeowner’s insurance.

How to Prepare Before a Power Outage

A big storm is about to roll through. What should you do? While some people panic and rush to the store to buy bread and milk, there are better ways to get ready. Here are some tips and tricks to prepare your home when an incoming storm may bring a power outage.

Tip: Make a Power Outage Kit

Every home should have an emergency preparedness kit with enough supplies on hand to be self-sufficient for at least three days. Your kit should include water, food, medications, important paperwork, flashlights and more. If you live where it gets cold, it’s a good idea to have blankets and hand warmers available in the case of a winter power outage— you’ll want to take extra steps to stay warm. Think through your family’s needs and put together the kit long before you need it.

And don’t forget: If you have external battery packs that can charge cell phones and other electronics, get them charged to full capacity before the storm rolls in. You may need them later.

Tip: Stock Up on Staples

If you’re anticipating a power outage due to a storm, this is the time to take inventory of your pantry to make sure you have food that can be eaten even when your appliances can’t be used. Focus on stocking up on non-perishable goods that don’t require refrigeration and are edible without using an electric stove, microwave or oven. You’ll want food that your family likes, but items like apples, peanut butter, bread, nuts, jerky, dried fruit, canned fruits and vegetables, crackers, granola bars and shelf-stable milk and juice boxes are all great options. 

FAQs: What to Do During a Power Outage

The storm has finally hit, the lights are out and appliances have stopped running. Now what?

Should I Unplug Everything During a Power Outage?

Yes! When the power comes back on, surges or spikes can damage equipment. So once the power is out, go around your home and turn off and unplug all unnecessary electrical equipment, including sensitive electronics. It’s also best to turn off or disconnect any appliances (like stoves), equipment or electronics you were using when the power went out. 

If you have enough time to plan or already own a backup generator, make sure to test it before use and follow the generator instructions on how to safely use it to power your home and appliances. You may also want to consider purchasing a battery backup to protect your electronic devices.

Do I Need to Turn off Gas When the Power Goes Out?

No. Natural gas can be left on and used during a power outage. Just ensure that you’ve examined the pipelines in case of any leaks or damage before using. 

During power outages, it’s possible for the carbon monoxide detector to go off. Treat this seriously and evacuate your home until it’s safe to re-enter. Remember, carbon monoxide doesn’t have a smell or taste, so it’s important to take the situation seriously.

How Long Does It Take for Food to Spoil After the Power Goes Out?

It depends. It’s important to keep the refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible during a power outage. Food is safe in a securely closed refrigerator for up to 4 hours. In a freezer it depends on how full it is — the fuller your freezer, the longer it can last.  A full freezer can last up to 48 hours, and a half-freezer can last up to 24 hours.

This is why it’s important to keep non-perishable foods around during a power outage: It reduces the amount of time the refrigerator and freezer is open, preserving the food inside.

How Long Do Power Outages Last?

Power outages can be over almost as quickly as they began, but some can last much longer — up to days or even weeks. This depends on the severity of the storm and what damage has been done to power lines.

What Not to Do During a Power Outage

Being smart during a power outage is also about knowing what not to do. Here are some activities to avoid while the power is out.

Play on Your Phone

Scrolling on your phone may seem appealing when you’re bored during a power outage, but it will quickly deplete your battery. You might need to use your phone as a flashlight, to call for emergency help or as a source of information. Don’t get stuck with a dead phone. 

Light Candles

In the movies, everybody lights candles during a power outage. But the truth is that candles can be a fire hazard, especially during unpredictable weather patterns and particularly if left unattended. The best alternative is to use flashlights and other battery-powered sources of light.

Unplug Everything

Yes, we did just tell you to unplug appliances and electronics. But leave something small, like a nightstand lamp, plugged in and turned on so that you know when the power comes back.

FAQs: What to Do After a Power Outage

After a storm, note any damage done to your home or property and go through your storm recovery checklist. If electrical power lines are down, don’t touch them. Report any downed lines to your utility company.

Is My Cold Food Safe When the Power Comes Back?

It depends on how long it’s been. If the power was out for only a short time and you didn’t open your refrigerator or freezer, you’re probably okay. But throw out any perishable food, particularly meat, poultry, fish, eggs and leftovers that have been exposed to temperatures higher than 40 degrees F for two hours or more. Don’t risk your family’s health.

Is My Home’s Equipment Working?

Go take a look. After a storm, it’s a good idea to go around your home to check all equipment is working properly. It’s possible for sump pumps to fail if affected by a storm, so start there to ensure the rest of your home is safe from flooding. If all appliances and electronics were unplugged, it’s safe to plug them back in after power has returned.

Be Prepared for Every Season

If you want to work with an insurance agent who can help you protect your home and property in case of a power outage, reach out to Farm Bureau.