Most power outages are over quickly. But city-wide blackouts can last hours or even days.
Don't get caught in the dark. Prepare yourself with Next Apartment's guide to power outages in your apartment.
Here in Canada we can experience extended power outages due to floods, extreme cold, high winds, or after ice and snowstorms. These types of natural disasters are occurring more frequently, so it's wise to be prepared.
What should I do in the case of a long lasting power outage?
Before an outage hits, add a thermometer to your fridge and freezer so you can see what temperature your appliances reach after an outage. When power is off, avoid opening the doors of your fridge and freezer to keep them cold. After a long outage, your perishables may not be safe to eat. Check this food safety guide before consuming anything.
Also, unplugging computers, televisions, and other electronics before power is restored will protect them from power surges.
Should I have an emergency kit?
Emergency kits help you prepare for a variety of disaster scenarios. Create your kit with a large plastic tub or other storage container and fill it with the following:
- Flashlights (battery or solar powered, or hand crank)
- Extra batteries
- Emergency glow sticks
- Solar or hand crank radio
- Solar phone charger
- Candles and matches
- Basic tools (pocketknife, pliers, wrench, hammer, screwdrivers)
- First aid (bandages, ointments, tweezers, thermometer, cotton balls, instant cold and hot packs)
- Duct tape
- Disposable gloves
- Hand sanitizer
- Tissues and paper towels
- Whistle to signal for help
- Dust masks
- Garbage bag
You may also be glad to have:
- Manual can opener
- Drinking water (enough for a gallon a day per person for 3 days)
- Thermal blankets
- Sleeping bags
- Extra winter hats, gloves, and scarves
If you don't have room for a large tote filled with your emergency supplies in your apartment, you can buy a standard survival kit from the Salvation Army. Store your emergency kit somewhere central and keep a flashlight in each room of your apartment to help you navigate in the dark.
It's never convenient to have a power outage, but it's always convenient to be prepared.