Preparing for Power Outages: A Complete Guide

Power outages can happen anytime, whether from storms, equipment failures, or even planned maintenance. In Jacksonville, NC, these outages often follow severe weather events like hurricanes or tropical storms. Nash Electric LLC, your trusted Jacksonville NC electric, understands the importance of being prepared for these unexpected events, and they’ve put together a detailed guide to help residents stay safe and comfortable when the lights go out.

Below is a comprehensive checklist and helpful safety tips for Jacksonville residents, courtesy of Nash Electric LLC. Let’s explore the essentials for handling power outages effectively and how to stay informed as utilities work to restore service.

Essential Checklist for Power Outages

Before a power outage occurs, it’s crucial to stock up on key items that will keep your household safe and comfortable until electricity is restored. Here’s what to gather:

Emergency Lighting

• Flashlights and Lanterns: Keep battery-powered flashlights and lanterns ready, as they are safer than candles and offer stronger light.
• Extra Batteries: Stock up on batteries, especially AA and AAA, as these are commonly used in flashlights.
• Solar-Powered or Crank Lanterns: For a sustainable option, solar or hand-cranked lanterns are a reliable backup.

Food and Water

• Non-Perishable Food: Items like canned goods, energy bars, and dried fruit are great choices. Try to have at least three days' worth of food per person.
• Manual Can Opener: Ensure you have a manual can opener for accessing canned food.
• Bottled Water: Aim to store at least one gallon per person per day for drinking and sanitation.

First Aid Supplies

• First Aid Kit: Keep a stocked kit with bandages, antiseptics, pain relievers, and other basic medical supplies.
• Medications: If anyone in the household takes medication, be sure to have a several-day supply on hand in case pharmacies are closed.

Power Sources

• Portable Chargers and Power Banks: Charge all power banks before a storm to keep mobile devices functioning.
• Generator: If you have a generator, Nash Electric LLC recommends having a licensed electrician install it to prevent potential hazards and ensure it’s ready when needed.

Communication Tools

• Battery-Powered or Hand-Crank Radio: Staying informed during an outage is essential. A radio can provide local weather updates and instructions if cell service is interrupted.
• Whistle: A whistle can be a helpful tool for signaling for help in emergencies.

Safety Precautions During and After Power Outages

Power outages present several safety risks, from fires caused by candles to carbon monoxide poisoning from improper generator use. Here’s what you need to know to keep your home safe.

Generator Safety

Generators can be lifesavers during outages, but they must be used correctly:

• Proper Ventilation: Run generators outdoors in a well-ventilated area, at least 20 feet away from windows, doors, and vents to avoid carbon monoxide buildup.
• Professional Installation: Nash Electric LLC advises against self-installing a generator. Let a certified electrician handle the setup to ensure it’s safe and compatible with your home’s electrical system.

Food and Water Safety

After a prolonged power outage, food in your refrigerator and freezer may no longer be safe to eat:

• Keep Refrigerator Closed: A closed fridge can keep food cold for about four hours, while a full freezer can maintain its temperature for up to 48 hours.
• Check for Spoilage: Discard any perishable food items that have been above 40°F for more than two hours.

Fire Hazard Prevention

In the absence of electric light, candles can be tempting, but flashlights and battery-powered lanterns are safer:

• Avoid Candles: If you must use candles, do so carefully and always place them in sturdy holders away from flammable objects.
• Store Extra Batteries Safely: Batteries should be stored in their original packaging or in a battery organizer to prevent them from making contact and potentially causing a fire.

Carbon Monoxide Awareness

Power outages often increase the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning due to improper generator and heater use:

• Install Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Place detectors on each level of your home, especially near sleeping areas.
• Ventilate Well: Never use gas stoves or ovens to heat your home, and keep rooms well-ventilated when using a generator or space heater.

Staying Informed About Power Outages

In times of power loss, staying updated with reliable information can ease stress and help you make informed decisions about your next steps. Here’s how to keep up with the latest on power outages:

Utility Company Alerts

Jacksonville’s utility companies often provide notifications for planned outages or during major events:

• Sign Up for Alerts: Many utilities offer text and email alerts. These notifications can let you know about expected restoration times or give safety guidance.
• Follow on Social Media: Platforms like Facebook and Twitter can be great for real-time updates from your power provider.

Government Alerts and Updates

Emergency services in Jacksonville also share updates that may be relevant during power outages:

• Enable Emergency Alerts: Many smartphones automatically receive government alerts, but you can check your settings to ensure emergency alerts are enabled.
• Use Local Radio Stations: In Jacksonville, local stations often provide up-to-date information on power restoration efforts and any assistance programs available during long outages.

Community Resources and Support

Sometimes, community groups offer valuable help during prolonged outages:

• Community Centers: Many centers open as shelters in prolonged outages or after severe weather events, offering a place to charge devices and access food and water.
• Neighborhood Groups: Local online groups, like those on Facebook or Nextdoor, can be excellent resources for sharing information about current conditions and locating resources nearby.

If you want to know more about electrical safety, go to “Electrical Safety With Expert Electrician” now. 

Why Preparation Matters: Peace of Mind and Safety with Nash Electric LLC

Nash Electric LLC believes that with proper preparation, power outages don’t have to feel chaotic or unsafe. By being proactive about emergency essentials, safety precautions, and staying informed, Jacksonville residents can reduce stress and navigate power outages with greater peace of mind.

Conclusion

In Jacksonville, NC, where power outages are a reality due to weather and infrastructure challenges, staying prepared is essential. Nash Electric LLC reminds residents to stock up on emergency items, prioritize safety, and use trusted sources to stay informed. By following these tips, Jacksonville residents can keep their households safe and comfortable, even when the power goes out. For expert guidance on generator installation or electrical safety, reach out to Nash Electric LLC for professional support. Visit them now!