What to Do When There is No Power

What to Do When There is No Power

January 16, 2019

Losing power is a common occurrence for homeowners. Sometimes loss of electricity is caused by the property’s own failed system, but in most instances, it’s created by a widespread outage due to issues with your energy company or local utilities. While many unexpected outages last only for a few minutes, there have been countless instances where families and businesses have had to suffer through hours or even days without proper power. From severe weather and damaged power lines to the software bug that brought about the infamous Northeast blackout of 2003, losing electricity is always a possibility. At Mr. Electric of Dallas, we enjoy providing our local customers with safe and reliable electricity. We want you to be prepared for possible electrical issues as well. Here are some helpful tips for what you can do when power’s been lost. 

Find a Temporary Light Source 

The first step is to restore your vision so you can safely find loved ones, gather supplies and inspect your property. If it’s daytime, open the windows to let in as much natural light as possible. If it’s night time, locate your flashlights or light candles. Keep in mind that open flames can be a fire hazard, particularly if there are young children around. Store a fire extinguisher close by, so you’re prepared if an emergency happens. It’s best to keep candles and flashlights collected in a specific area of your home, so they’re easy to find in the dark. 

Check Your Electrical Panel

Next, you’ll need to find out if the loss of power is due to an internal or external electrical failure. Check your electrical panel box and see if the breaker has tripped. If so, turn the switch back to the ON position, and see if the power returns. If this issue recurs, be sure to contact a certified electrician who can properly inspect your system and repair the problem. 

Speak to Neighbors and Call the Electrical Company

If the power failure is coming from an external source, find out who else is affected. Chat with neighbors and call the electrical company to report an outage. If the power issue is affecting many people, this step could take a long time. It’s always a good idea to keep a few fully charged portable power banks in your emergency kit so you don’t have to worry about using your cell phone. 

Turn Off All Appliances and Expensive Electronics

Unplug your appliances and devices throughout your home. When the power is restored, there could be a surge, which can damage expensive electronics. 

Stay Safe and Be Patient

Keep loved ones close by, and try to make the best of the situation. In the worst-case scenario, the outage should last only a few days. If the temperature outside is freezing or extremely hot, do everything you can to make your environment comfortable and safe. Ration your food supply. If you have a gas stove, you may be able to prepare food from your refrigerator, otherwise you’ll need to eat non-perishable items from your pantry. If the outage is set to last long term, you may want to stay with friends or family, or pay for a nearby hotel room that has electricity. 

Invest in a Standby Generator to Avoid Future Outages

The best way to quickly overcome a loss of power is to invest in a standby generator. If you own a business or live in an area with frequent storms or electrical issues, then a generator will help you avoid all the safety hazards and inconveniences associated with outages. 

Need Help Restoring Your Power? Call Mr. Electric of Dallas

Do you need a standby generator installation or emergency electrical repair in the DFW area? Then call Mr. Electric of Dallas today. Our certified and insured electricians are ready to help. We offer quality residential and commercial services in Dallas, Farmers Branch, Inwood, Lakewood, Arlington, Oak Lawn, University Park, North Dallas, Highland Park, Lake Highlands or another surrounding North Texas community, contact our office to schedule a convenient appointment.