Most people relate a power outage to lack of lights in the household or possibly the loss of use of their computer or television. In reality those are the most visually noted areas but mechanically speaking they are the least of your concerns. Keep in mind "everything" that needs electricity to operate. Your furnace, your water pumps, your refrigerator. These are the everyday appliances that we take for granted but can be detrimental to your well-being and home during an outage.

Heres a few suggestions:
First and foremost be sure you have an alternative light source such as a flashlight with new batteries, battery operated lamps, or candles. Be extremely cautious with candles and never leave unattended. The last thing you want is to be stumbling around in a dark household so have these items readily available. Water can play a very important role here as well. If you do not store bottled water consider drawing water into a safe drinking container when the weather takes a turn for the worst. By monitoring the weather you can make your own decision as to whether or not you feel your power may be interrupted and act accordingly. You know the saying - "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure." Communication may also be overlooked in many cases so bear in mind that a battery operated radio will keep you in touch with news and updates. Also, in todays electronic age, many families rely on cordless and cell phones. It's hard to say if your cell phone will be able to make a connection during bad weather and, a cordless phone is not functional during a power outage so consider having a basic phone system installed somewhere in the home for emergencies. Remember, we cannot get power restored if we have not been alerted that there is an outage in your area.

A few basic needs should already be in your home such as blankets and dried or canned food. These will help make your time without power less of a crisis. For those with children consider setting up a board game and making the most of the time together focused as a family. Keeping the kids active is creating a positive influence rather than having them reflect on what they cant do at the moment.

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