With the high winds last week and the snowstorms this week, it’s important to know what to do when the power goes out. The Detroit Free Press stated last week that over one million utility customers in Michigan were out of power. DTE Energy called last week’s windstorm one of the largest weather events in the company’s history. With wind being over 60 miles per hour many were left without power.
So, what should you do when the power goes out?
First things first: don’t panic! Check over to your neighbor’s house to see if they have power. If your neighbors have power the problem could be inside your home. Check your main fuses to see if they’ve been blown. Replacing a fuse or resetting a circuit breaker will hopefully solve the problem and restore your electricity. If not, call a certified electrician to come look at your home to figure out the problem.
For a long term power outage, we recommend purchasing a generator. It is important that your generator is properly installed. If not properly installed, it can be a danger to your family and home. For more information about generators, click here to watch our Healthy Home Expert, Jeff Lee discusses backup generators. If you have any questions about generators or how to pick one that is the best fit for your family, call Holland Heating and Cooling at 810-653-4328.
It’s important to always be prepared for a power outage. Here is a list of few items to always keep in a cool and dry place that can be reached if there is a power outage:
- Flashlight
- Radio (battery operated)
- Candles with matches
- Extra supply of batteries
- First aid kit
- Water bottles/drinking water
- A small supply of food (especially if you have children)
If your power goes out during the winter time a few steps to take:
- Dress warmly
- Move to one room of the house with the fewest windows
- Keep a small stream of water running to prevent your pipes bursting
And if your power is out for an extended amount of time:
- Unplug everything in your home
- Turn off breakers
- Winterize your water supply
- Empty out all of your food and open the refrigerator doors
- Keep your curtains closed except on south facing windows
- Check your basement for flooding
A power outage is never fun, but becoming more prepared can help you cope with losing power. Having a plan and being prepared for an emergency situation is the best thing you can do for your family.
