10 Things You Can Do to Prepare For a Blackout

What are some things you can do before a blackout?

1. Store Food Away

Dried Fruit

Store away a supply of food now. Keep canned meat, bread, nut butter spread, nuts, crackers, dried fruit and other non-perishables in your pantry. Keeping at least 3 days for each person should be adequate for short blackouts. Remember to rotate the food out and keep accurate records of expiration dates.

2. Keep a Source of Water

You will need a gallon of water for each person per day. So if you have a family of four you will need 3 gallons each for a minimum of 3 days. If you have bottled water delivered, you can rotate out a 5 gallon bottle in your pantry every quarter. For a safe clean water supply purchase gallon water bottles and store in your pantry rotating them out as needed.

You may also use 2-liter soda bottles that have been thoroughly washed with soap and water. Sanitize the bottle with a solution of 1 teaspoon of non-scented chlorine bleach to 1 quart of water. Swish this around to make sure it touches all surfaces and then rinse out completely with clean water. Fill with tap water and close with cap making sure not to contaminate the cap by touching the inside. Mark the bottle with the date you stored it and it should last 6 months.

3. Use Alternate Forms of Energy

During a blackout you will need to turn off all appliances. Unplug anything that is connected to outlets. If using a generator do not use it in the house or the garage. Be extra careful when using candles as they pose a high risk for fire. Always keep batteries and flashlights available.

My husband and I found a solar flashlight that can also be wound up in case there is a lack of solar energy. It is small and has a led light but it serves its purpose.

4. Communication

Cell phones and land lines will most likely be available but only use these in case of an emergency. If you have a cordless phone or cable phone you will not be able to use it. Get into the habit of charging your Cell phone regularly. Keep a portable Television and/or radio as well as plenty of batteries or the generator to operate it. Do not call 9-1-1 unless it is a life threatening emergency as these lines need to stay open.

5. Preparing Financially

Remember that ATMs require electricity and will be out-of-service during a blackout. This will also mean no access to credit cards or point of sale purchases. Keep an emergency stash of cash in a home safe.

6. Transportation

During a blackout traffic lights will be out and you will not be able to pump gasoline. This will most likely cause confusion, frustration, and traffic jams. Stay home if possible and if you must go out use a bike or walk instead of using your vehicle.

7. Special Preparations for the Disabled

Before a blackout even begins you will need to contact your local electrical company and register so they know where you are located. They keep records of your address as well as the power operated equipment that you use. Keep an extra battery charged for your scooter or wheel chair. If you are hearing or visually impaired keep a portable television or radio handy.

8. Accessing Your Home

This might seem silly but always keep a key to your house on you. If you normally enter your home via the electric garage, you will need to know how to manually operate the garage door.

9. Safety Considerations

Keep all your emergency preparation supplies in one location. Unplug all appliances and any electrical devices. Keep one light on so you will know when electricity returns. Never attach a generator to the home or the garage. Avoid opening your refrigerator or freezer. Avoid, if possible, using candles. Keep informed by listening to the radio or television.

10. Prepare an Emergency Contact List

Keep a list of contacts available for your family, friends, neighbors, schools, and places of employment. Make sure your children know what to do in a blackout. Prepare in advance who will pick your children up during an emergency. Know your schools policy about non-family members picking up your children. If you care for an elderly relative or a disabled relative know how to get appropriate services for them.

Doing these simple things now will save a lot of stress and confusion during a blackout. Sure, one might not happen but these things will prepare you for other types of emergencies. It will also enable you to assist others during times of emergency.

10 Things You Can Do to Prepare For a Blackout

Sara enjoys spending time with her family, crocheting, and writing her snailmail friends. She shares snippets of her life, craft, and interests by blogging at http://momwithahook.blogspot.com and http://snailmailpals.net

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