A power outage for a few hours may be a minor inconvenience, but the situation gets a little scary when the lights go out for days or even weeks on end. But natural disasters have kept people without power for such long periods, and they’ve managed to prevail.
Some people worry about foreign or terrorist acts that could keep entire areas of the country off the power grid. State and local governments have emergency preparedness plans to help communities, but sometimes people are left on their own.
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These seven ways to live if the lights go out can help you deal with an uncomfortable situation that lasts longer than usual:
1. Don’t panic — If the lights go out for a long period of time, remember that people not too long ago lived just fine without electrical power. Many people continue to do so for fun when camping or hiking. Friends and family in the same situation can help each other get through it.
2. Protect food sources — Staying fed is essential, especially if the darkness lingers on. Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible the day the power goes off, advises the American Red Cross. Use food from the refrigerator first, then from the freezer, which can keep foods for up to 48 hours. Afterwards, use non-perishable foods. Store food in a cooler with ice when it appears the power outage will last more than a day.
3. Use candles carefully — Candles cause hundreds of fires a year when left unattended, according to Uxari. Keep lit candles away from flammable materials such as upholstered furniture and curtains.
4. Stay safe inside — Avoid travel and wasting gas as much as possible, especially with the danger of no traffic lights and anxious drivers. Do not use outdoor grills, generators, or other devices that use gas, propane, and charcoal burning inside. They can release life-threatening carbon monoxide. Keep the devices outside, away from doors, windows, and vents that might bring carbon monoxide inside.
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5. Have alternative power sources — Battery-operated gadgets keep you in contact with the rest of the world. Prepare to use battery packs and plenty of AA and AAA batteries for radios, flashlights, and other necessities. A car battery can be a good source of power. A cigarette-lighter adapter can also charge up various gadgets, writes Eric Limer at Gizmodo.
6. Keep hydrated — A gallon of drinking water is needed for each person each day. Fill up the tub or buckets when it appears the power may be off for a long time, affecting the water supply. Collect rain water if possible. Water is also needed for cleaning dishes and washing.
7. Remain active — Exercise is important for body and mind. Turn to board games and cards to occupy the time with family and friends. Communicate with your neighbors. Cooking with outside grills connects neighbors with each other. Maintaining a strong relationship with neighbors at this time comes in handy to share thoughts and ideas on survival methods if the lights stay out for a very long time.
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