Prepping for Power Outages: Your Essential Guide to Staying Safe

When you think of BC winters, you probably imagine snow-covered landscapes and cozy nights by the fireplace. However, with the beauty of winter also comes the risk of power outages caused by severe storms, high winds, and ice accumulation. As a responsible homeowner, being prepared for these outages is crucial not only for your comfort but also for your safety. In this article, we’ll explore essential tips for prepping for power outages so you can stay cozy and secure during any emergency.

Understanding the Risks of Power Outages

Severe weather events such as ice storms and heavy snowfall can lead to significant power disruptions. Although exact figures for prolonged outages are less documented, the Canadian Electricity Association notes that outages can impact thousands of households, highlighting the need for residents to be equipped and prepared for such events.

Power outages can disrupt heating systems, impact perishable food supplies, hinder communication, and even pose safety risks to individuals who rely on medical devices. Taking proactive steps can help mitigate these risks and keep your family safe and comfortable. 

Create an Emergency Kit

One of the most critical steps in power outage preparation is creating a well-stocked emergency kit. According to the Canadian Red Cross, every household should have an emergency kit that can sustain them for at least three days. Here’s what you should include:

 Flashlights and extra batteries: Avoid using candles due to fire hazards.

Non-perishable food: Include items like canned goods, granola bars, and dried fruits.

Bottled water: Plan for at least two litres of water per person per day for three days, as recommended by Health Canada.

First aid supplies: Include basic medical items and medications.

Portable phone charger: Keep your devices charged, especially for communication.

By preparing an emergency kit, you can ensure that you and your family are ready to handle power outages effectively. 

Develop a Power Outage Plan

Having a well-structured power outage plan is essential. In your family emergency plan, consider how you will communicate if the power goes out. Establish a point of contact, especially if family members are in different locations.

 In addition, explore backup power options. Generators can provide temporary electricity and are particularly useful during extended outages. Before purchasing one, research which size and type (portable or standby) best suits your needs. 

Safeguard Food and Water Supplies

When the power goes out, your refrigerator and freezer may quickly become a concern. According to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, food stored in a refrigerator will keep for about four hours before it begins to spoil without power. To keep your food safe:

 Keep freezers full: Full freezers maintain cold temperatures longer.

Use ice packs: Adding pre-frozen gel packs can help keep food cold for additional time.

Know what to keep or toss: If the power is out for an extended period, follow the “when in doubt, throw it out” rule. Foods kept above 4°C (40°F) for more than two hours should be discarded to avoid foodborne illnesses. 

Stay Informed About Weather Conditions

Staying informed is vital during power outages. Battery or hand-crank radios are excellent resources for updates about power restoration efforts, weather conditions, and emergency alerts. Make sure your mobile devices are charged, and consider keeping a backup power bank in your emergency kit.

 Additionally, develop a routine check on your local weather reports, especially during winter months when storms are more likely. Having advance knowledge can help you prepare before an outage occurs. 

Secure Your Home

Power outages can cause significant risks, especially in extreme weather. For example, if temperatures drop, there is a chance of pipes freezing. Insulating your plumbing can help reduce this risk. Here are some tips:

●      Insulate your pipes: Use pipe insulation or heat tape on areas that are vulnerable to freezing.

●      Open cabinet doors: This allows warmer air to circulate around pipes.

●      Drip faucets during extreme cold: It keeps water moving throughout the pipe, helping prevent freezing. 

Use this opportunity to secure any exterior fixtures, such as windows and doors, to prevent damage from high winds or snow accumulation. Proper insulation and weatherproofing can prevent drafts and heat loss. 

Effective Communication Strategies

During a power outage, maintaining communication with family and friends is critical. Consider these options:

Mobile phones: Make sure to keep them charged and have a backup charger.

Texting apps: Sometimes, texting may work better than calling due to network congestion.

Social media: Many people use platforms like Facebook to share updates and check on loved ones.

Having a communication strategy can significantly reduce anxiety and enhance safety during outages. 

Post-Outage Safety Checks

Once the power returns, take a moment to assess your home. Here are a few steps to follow:

Check food safety: Discard anything that might have spoiled.

Avoid overloading circuits: When the power comes back on, avoid turning on all electrical devices at once to prevent overload.

Inspect your generator: If you've used a generator, ensure it’s properly maintained and stored according to safety guidelines. 

References for More Information

Public Safety Canada: Emergency management resources and information from the Canadian government.

Canadian Red Cross: Emergency preparedness resources.

Canadian Food Inspection Agency: Guidelines for food safety during power outages. 

Final Thoughts on Power Outage Preparedness

Being prepared for power outages is essential for ensuring the safety and comfort of your family during emergencies. By creating an outage survival kit, developing a solid power outage plan, safeguarding food and water supplies, and securing your home, you can greatly reduce the impact of unexpected power loss. 

If you need assistance with preparing your home for power outages or to update your electrical services to ensure your home is equipped for emergencies, don’t hesitate to reach out to 1364 Services in Langley. Our team of experts is here to help you stay safe and cozy, no matter what the weather throws your way!