With homes becoming run by smart applications, it can often leave a gap in the unfortunate event of a power outage. If there is a power outage in your area that lasts more than a few hours, your smart technology is not going to be any good. It is a great idea to keep your home stocked with a few small essential items that can keep you and your family happy, and safe, during a power outage.
You never know when a power outage may hit your area, so it is best to be as prepared as possible. This way, you can keep yourself entertained, and safe, until everything comes back on.
Here are some of the best items you should equip your home with.
#1 Battery pack
A handy device to have is a battery pack. You can buy these cheap online or at your local supermarket, and are a great way to keep your phone charged when you have no power so that you can contact anyone if there is an emergency. Once you have purchased one, you should charge it fully, and then keep it in a safe place with a cable for your phone. This way, it is easy to find if you ever need it in an emergency. Depending on which device you purchase, they can typically have 4-10 hours of charging capabilities.
#2 Lighting
A power outage may not be a problem if it occurs during the day, but if it extends into the nighttime, then you may have a problem. You should keep a torch (fully charged or with spare batteries), candles and matches in a place that is easy to find in your home, so you can access them when needed at night. You don’t want to drain the battery on your phone by using the torch on your device. These items are a great alternative, in the case that the outage lasts over a few days. Make sure you store these items in a cool, dry and dark place, so they are not ruined by dampness or mold.
#3 Food
It may be a good idea to keep some snacks and canned food in your cupboards. If the power goes out and you only have an electric cooking appliance, you will not be able to cook. This spare food will enable you to eat and keep you going until the power is back on again. Keep this food separate from your usual shopping, so that it stays available in the event of an emergency. Choose items that will keep, such as energy bars, nuts, or crisps.
#4 Personal safety devices
Unfortunately, power outages that last more than a few hours often come with negative consequences. In some places, people use the power outage as an opportunity to exploit these situations for looting and burglaries, leaving people feeling extremely unsafe. Being in the dark, with a lack of access to typical electronic devices and not being able to see properly can leave people scared and vulnerable. It is, therefore, a good idea to keep some personal safety devices in the house, so that you can protect yourself and your family if necessary. There are a variety of Non-Lethal Self Defense Options, such as stun guns, pepper spray, and batons.
#5 Security
Keeping your home secure all year round is great for feeling safe at home and comes in handy if there is a power outage, to provide your family with extra protection. Most homes are equipped with smart security devices, which, unfortunately, are not going to be any good in the event of a power outage. It may therefore be helpful to include a few additional security devices in your home that will continue to work in the event of a power outage, for example, manual door locks. You can also take steps to ensure your smart devices stay online, by investing in a cellular backup, which is engaged if the power goes out. However, these don’t come with the standard device and will need to be added on.
#6 Games
If there is a power outage that lasts a few hours, you may find yourself bored without your smart devices, such as social media applications or television shows on Netflix, to keep you entertained. It is a great idea to keep some old-fashioned games, such as a pack of cards or board games in a cupboard. It is a great way to pass the time, distract the family from worrying, and even bond.
Following these tips will ensure your home is safe and well-equipped in the event of a power outage.
