Prepare Your Home for a Power Outage

It’s December in Central Virginia, and we’ve been spared any severe winter weather so far this season. However, with a snowy and colder winter in Virginia predicted by The Old Farmer’s Almanac and AccuWeather, now is the time to ensure your household will be prepared for a power outage. As you may have experienced in previous years, snow and ice storms can cause extended power outages in our area. Is your family ready?

Advance Preparations to Be Prepared for a Power Outage

You can do several things ahead of time to be prepared for a power outage. In fact, most people can probably check off these items at first reading; if not, take some time to work on this list:

• For some homeowners, having a generator provides peace of mind. A backup generator will allow you to power communication devices and important appliances like your refrigerator and heat pump.
• Stock an emergency kit in an accessible place in your home. It should include flashlights, batteries, a radio, basic first aid supplies, and water.
• If you have an option for backup or alternate heat other than a heat pump, ensure that your system is in good order and has sufficient fuel. Consider calling a professional to inspect the system.
• Purchase an alternate method for charging your cell phone, such as a portable battery pack or a car charger. Your cell phone can be your link to news and updates about weather and power line repairs, and you don’t want to be stuck with a dead battery.
• Stock some basic non-perishable food supplies in your kitchen: manual can opener, water, canned goods, etc.
• Verify that you know how to open and close your electric garage door so you can continue to come and go as needed.
• Install surge protectors to protect valuable electronics, including computers and televisions.

Last-Minute Preparations to Be Prepared for a Power Outage

As we move into our wintry months, keep an eye on the forecast so you can make these last-minute preparations to be prepared for a power outage:

• Make sure your warm clothes and sleeping bags are accessible. If your heat won’t function without electricity, it can get cold quickly!
• Fully charge your cell phone and other important battery-powered devices.
• Your generator, gas grill, camp stove, gas fireplace, etc., may function without power, so check your fuel supply for any alternate power, cooking, or heating systems you plan to use. Of course, follow all safety precautions for using these appliances!
• Take stock of your pantry and run to the grocery store to resupply as needed on water and foods that you can prepare without electricity. Also consider buying disposable plates, napkins, utensils, and cups – especially if you lose your water supply during a power outage.
• If your water supply requires power (such as a well with an electric pump), load up on additional water for your household.
• If there is room in your freezer, purchase ice to fill any empty spaces.
• Fill the gas tanks on your cars; gas stations rely on electricity to power their pumps.

Call Fitch Services in an Emergency

At first, a power outage can seem like a fun adventure, especially for kids: a no-holds junk food fest and sleepovers with Mom and Dad! However, the novelty may quickly erode and, as they say, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Take steps now to be prepared for a power outage to ensure everyone can stay as safe and comfortable as possible until your electric supply is restored!

Don’t hesitate to contact us anytime this winter, whether for regular maintenance or a plumbing or electrical emergency. Call Fitch Services at (434) 296-9980 or use our contact form.

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