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Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration

How to Prepare For Summer Power Outages

6/30/2021 (Permalink)

When summer brings about power outages, it's good to stay prepared.

As we continue our trek into the iconically hot summers of Oklahoma, we remember that the risk of a summertime power outage comes with the benefits of vacation time and poolside rendezvous.

In light of this, we must be prepared to safeguard against these summer power outages so we can try our best to enjoy the cool air all summer long.

Spotting a Brownout

When the weather conditions are severe, electric companies often implement a brownout — a reduction of electricity in a specific area — to keep from overloading the power grid. You can catch these signs by observing your lights and electric appliances to see if they are flickering or turning on and off rapidly. There may also be power interruptions intermittently. Make sure to turn them off so you can protect your appliances from this abnormal voltage as they can easily be damaged.

What To Do

If you suspect a power outage could be coming your way eventually, take these precautions to avoid the situation altogether:

  • Try to keep the thermostat at 78 degrees or higher, if possible

  • Keep lights and pool pumps off

  • Limit your use of large appliances like ovens, washing machines and dryers

  • Turn off and unplug devices that aren’t currently being used

When It Happens

Sometimes we aren’t so quick to avoid power outages, and sometimes, even though we have exhausted all of our options and best practices, we still experience them. In this case, there are some things we can do to prioritize our safety and comfort and sustain our possessions:

  • Call your electricity company immediately. Report the outage and stay patient as they’re probably working as quickly as they can to fix the issue.
  • Keep the fridge and freezer closed so the inside stays cold. A full freezer, without being opened, can keep food frozen for about two days. If half-full, the food only lasts a day. The fridge will keep food good for 4 hours if unopened.
  • Don’t open the windows and doors. It’s tempting to keep from feeling trapped inside but opening the doors and windows will only let the outside air come in, making it much hotter. Also, close the blinds and curtains on the sunny side of your property to keep the home from overheating.
  • Use a surge suppressor. This can be purchased at any local hardware store and will protect your devices and electronics from getting fried when the power comes back on.

Whether you are pre- or post- power outage, it’s best to be prepared for the next (or first) potential one. Consider getting a backup generator or stock up on battery-powered fans and other necessities.

Summer power outages may be inevitable but we can do our best to lessen the negative effects on our households.

Have more questions? Call your neighbors at SERVPRO of Central Oklahoma City: (405) 252-9400.

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