Many are at risk of power outages, which could strike anytime. To help you prepare for the worst, we checked out the best options to ensure your home can access power no matter what. If you don’t want to be caught without a plan, check out these tips so that you can breeze through any inconvenient power outage.

Power LinesPhoto credit: Unsplash

Invest in a Portable Power Station

Investing in a portable power station or generator can be a game-changer. That means you never have to worry about a lack of power again.

A generator is an appliance that can supply your home with electricity and can be used to provide backup power should you need it. If the outage is due to a storm or downed line, your generator will power you through as it’s not dependent on the grid. What’s more, a portable power station can come along with you when you go camping or travel in your RV.

Some best portable power stations can power some of your most crucial devices and appliances in your home. Another key benefit to these is that they have wheels, making them easy to move around. Some of the smaller models are even handheld, making them more mobile. Further, these tend to be more affordable than other types of generators, which makes them perfect for keeping on standby for emergencies.

Install a Log-Burner

Gas and wood fireplaces will continue to work should there be a power outage, so this is a good time to invest in that cozy wood-burning stove you’ve been wanting. The fact that it’s low-tech means that very little can go wrong with it during a power outage. So long as you have fuel ready, you can use it. What’s more, an EPA-Certified stove uses one-third less wood fuel for the same heat than some counterparts. This makes it incredibly efficient and cost-effective.

The best part is that it will provide plenty of heat so that you can warm your whole home and not just one room. The same can be said for the light it gives off — to manage the same amount of illumination using tealights would be an incredibly difficult challenge.

Prepare an Emergency Kit

If you don’t have the time or money to invest in equipment before an outage, or even if you already have, you should arrange an emergency kit so that you’re ready should the worst happen. It’s impossible to know when disaster might strike. Make sure your emergency box is easy to access, and you should let everyone know where it is.

What should go in your emergency kit? It’s a good idea to have flashlights and batteries for everyone, and if possible, a few spares in case you need them. Having a flashlight for everyone instantly gives a sense of safety and relaxation. Other items should include a first aid kit, food, water, and blankets. It might be nice also to have some games that don’t require electricity, which will make everyone feel more at ease.

If an emergency strikes, it’s a good idea to have a plan with the rest of your family. Ideally, you should all stay together in the same room, including any pets. This makes sharing supplies easier and provides body heat should you lose heat. This also makes it easier to check that everyone is safe and accounted for.

Plan for Cuts to Power Today

Nobody can truly predict when your power may go out, so the best option is always to be prepared, whether installing a log burner, buying a generator, or simply creating an emergency kit and plan. The most important thing is to be safe and ensure everyone in your household knows what to do should disaster strike.

Published in: Home advice | Author: Lynn

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