By admin :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/GettyImages-1434820920-c4dcf065341a4774a9b504ba70cd75b9.jpg?ssl=1 "8 Things You Should Never Do During a Power Outage")
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With the arrival of hot weather, power outages often become more prevalent (especially in storm-prone areas). Excessive heat also creates higher reliance on air conditioning, which in turn places an increased demand on power grids. First things first: When the lights go out, it’s important not to panic. Arming yourself ahead of time with some basic knowledge about what to do during a power outage should help you stay calm and steady through the hours ahead.
To get ahead of any costly or dangerous mistakes, it is equally critical that you are acquainted with what not to do during an outage—so we turned to professional electricians. Read ahead to learn how to keep you and your home safe during a power outage.
Don’t Run Portable Generators Indoors
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Standby generators can restart your fridge, keep your devices charged, and your HVAC units running in the event of an outage. However, it is essential to closely follow safety protocols when putting them to use.
According to expert electrician Daniel Mock, generators should never be run in basements, garages, campers, or even outside near an open window, door, or vent, due to the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
Electrical expert Todd Hodnicki advises placing portable generators at least 20 feet away from the house with the exhaust directed away from windows and doors. Your home should also be properly outfitted with battery-operated CO detectors as a safeguard.
Don’t Leave Electronics Turned On
While it may seem unnecessary, it’s critical to turn off electronics when the power goes out. Worthington warns against leaving electrical items on during a power outage. “Even though the power is out, turn off lights, televisions, and other household appliances, so that when power is restored, there isn’t a strain on the electrical system,” says Joel Worthington, president of Mr. Electric.
While you’re at it, be sure also to move electronics to higher ground to avoid potential water damage, adds Mock.
Don’t Frequently Open Your Your Refrigerator or Freezer
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Avoid opening your refrigerator unless absolutely necessary during a power outage to preserve the cold temperatures necessary for preserving food. “Every time you open the door, cold air escapes and food temperature rises,” explains Hodnicki. “Repeatedly opening these appliances will increase your risk of spoiled food, which can lead to [food-borne] illness,” he says.
If an outage is expected, grouping essential items near the front of your fridge can be helpful, as well as the use of coolers with ice packs for essential medications and food items. (Anyone with critical medical devices should also consider investing in a home backup battery system or a professionally installed standby generator.
Don’t Leave Candles Unattended or Near Flammable Items
While candles may seem like a go-to in the event of a power outage, use caution. According to Hodnicki, “they’re a serious fire hazard–especially if placed near curtains, papers, or upholstery,” and especially in homes with children or pets.
Hodnicki recommends having battery-operated lanterns or LED flashlights on hand. “They’re safer, longer-lasting, and often provide better illumination, anyway,” he says.
Don’t Plug In Electronics
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Under no circumstances should you plug your devices into the wall during a power outage, cautions Hodnicki. “Power outages can come with power surges, especially when electricity is restored,” he explains. “These surges can fry your devices and even start electrical fires.”
Preventatively installed surge protectors or whole-house surge protection systems can further help lessen risk.
Don’t Use Your Oven or Stovetop to Heat Your Home
During a wintertime power outage, you might be tempted to flip on your oven or your gas burners to generate heat. However, this is a serious safety hazard and should be avoided. “Gas ovens can release carbon monoxide, and both electric and gas ovens are not designed for extended heating,” explains Hodnicki. Not only does turning on your oven and stove top create a major fire hazard, it can also severely damage your appliance.
To stay warm during a power outage, Hodnicki recommends layering clothes, using blankets, and sticking to one room with safe heating sources.
Don’t Wait Too Long to Charge Your Devices
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When the weather report predicts storms, don’t delay charging your devices—it’s always better to be prepared. “Don’t wait until it’s too late to charge your electronics,” warns Mock. Now may be your only chance in the event the storm rolls in earlier than expected.
Don’t Leave Your Breakers On
As counterintuitive as it may seem, your breakers should not be left on during a power outage—and making that extra effort to turn them off will pay dividends. Just like other appliances and electrical devices, says Mock, they need to be protected and should be turned off to prevent damage from power surges when electricity returns.