Depending on when they happen and how long they last, power outages can either be a minor inconvenience or a serious health hazard. You should have a plan in place for what to do when your power goes out.
Contact Your Utility Company
If you just had a big storm or you’re in the middle of a heatwave, you might be expecting a power outage. However, if your power seems to go out for no apparent reason, it may be helpful to verify whether the problem is area-wide or just with your house. Many utility companies post outage maps on the internet that you may be able to view from a smartphone or a friend’s house. Your utility company probably also has a phone number you can call that may have a pre-recorded message. If there doesn’t seem to be an area outage, you may need to talk to your power company or have electrical troubleshooting Philadelphia PA done to determine if the issue is an outside line or something wrong with your home’s electrical system.
Don’t Open Your Refrigerator
Having to throw out a refrigerator or freezer full of food can be frustrating and expensive. You can reduce your chance of this happening by only opening refrigerators and freezers when you must and closing them quickly. If you keep the doors closed, food can stay at a safe temperature for up to four hours in a refrigerator and 48 hours in a full freezer. After four hours, you can move food from the fridge to a cooler with ice or frozen gel packs. Food needs to be kept at 40°F or lower. If you are unsure if food is still safe, throw it out.
Taking the appropriate steps when the power goes out can save you some frustration and help keep your family safe. For more tips, check with your local utility provider.