We all know how winter in Ontario can be; beautiful snow days can quickly be derailed by a wretched storm in just a few hours. However, these storms sometimes come with more than just ruined tobogganing plans. Power outages are unfortunately common in Ontario during the cold months, and it’s always crucial to be prepared for them. Below is a list of essential items to have on hand in the event of a power outage.
Keep Extra Flashlights or Headlamps Handy for a Power Outage
This may be one of the most straightforward on our list, but one of the most important! A heavy-duty flashlight or headlamp is crucial for navigating safely during a power outage. This is especially true during the evenings when light is minimal. For your flashlight, make sure it is battery-operated or wind-up. Ensure it does not require charging, so it is ready whenever the time comes! Flashlights are also a much safer and more reliable alternative to candles.
Stock Up on Water and Non-Perishable Food
Unfortunately, a power outage can take hours or even days to be fixed. Sometimes, you may not have tap water in these scenarios. When this is the case, you will want to have some bottles of water and non-perishable food items on hand. Some notable examples of food items that will come in handy include canned goods, energy bars, and dried foods, such as nuts or fruit. Remember to replace your food and water supply kits once a year and include a manual can opener in your food kit!
Have A First Aid Kit Accessible
In the event of any emergency, it is always crucial to have a First Aid Kit handy in case of a power outage. With insufficient light, maneuvering around a particular area can be tough. It is always super important to keep your emergency kit handy so you can treat any injuries promptly! Remember to always keep this in a safe, easy-to-find spot in the dark.
Use A Portable Radio During a Power Outage
When it comes to staying updated on the status of your power, having a charged cellphone isn’t always an option when you are without power. It is easy to check in and even contact your hydro provider to see just how long you are going to be left in the dark. However, when you can’t charge your cellphone, it is always super important to have a portable radio with you. This can be either a battery-powered radio or a wind-up portable radio! This will help you stay in the loop when your power returns or if an emergency arises. Listening to music is an excellent way to pass the time, especially with the kiddos!
Include Cards and Board Games for Entertainment
Whether you are with family, coworkers, or roommates, a power outage is an excellent way to bond and connect! Cards and board games are excellent ways to pass the time and step away from your cellphones and other daily distractions.
Stay Warm with Blankets and Winter Clothes
When a power outage strikes during the colder months, it is always good to prepare with items that can keep you warm. This is especially important in cases where the blackout lasts longer than you expect. Blankets, sleeping bags, hats, and sweaters do an excellent job of providing warmth when there is no power. If your location is notably colder than average, it may also be a clever idea to have gloves, socks, and scarves at the ready. Additionally, having your winter jacket on standby is not a bad idea, either.
Charge a Portable Phone Power Bank Before a Power Outage
Receiving updates on when your power will return is always super handy, and your smartphone is a fantastic way to do that. With applications like Twitter providing real-time updates on your area’s power situation, it’s easy to stay up-to-date. However, it can be hard to preserve the battery on your phone, especially if you are also using it for entertainment purposes. Therefore, it is convenient to have a portable phone charger or ‘power bank’ on hand. This way, you can extend your smartphone’s battery life without needing to use electricity. Just remember to charge it and keep it in an accessible area beforehand!
Pack Hygiene Items (Wipes and Sanitizer)
When you are without power, one thing you want to focus on is making sure your water supply is being conserved! A terrific way to cut back on your water supply is by stocking up on hygienic items, such as hand sanitizers and baby wipes. These are both excellent ways to practice proper hygiene without using the water you have saved up. This way, you can keep the water you have on hand for drinking.
With these items, you will be able to get through a power outage of any length, safely and soundly. It is best to have all these items packaged together in a suitcase or bag, ready to go. Please keep them in an area where you can access them quickly in the dark, such as a front hall closet or a kitchen pantry. Combine our list with the proper home insurance coverage, which will cover you financially if a storm causes damage to your home or belongings. Relax knowing you are safe and sound until your power returns!
Stay Connected
Nowadays, with technology being as prevalent as ever, there hasn’t been an easier time to stay connected. When your phone is charged, you can stay informed with the Hydro One outage application. With this, you can receive alerts on upcoming outages, view an outage map of your neighbourhood and report any outages you’re experiencing.
Alternatively, for those without a smartphone, you can text 92887 to report any outages.
Take Necessary Steps After a Power Outage
After your power is back on, it is important to take a few necessary steps in order to make sure everything is good to go.
Make sure that your home and outdoor areas are inspected for any damage before you go ahead and turn your appliances back on. When ready, make sure you turn on your devices and appliances one-by-one in order to avoid any power surges. Finally, make sure your electrical system hasn’t received any damage. If it has, make sure you have it inspected by a master electrician.
At the end of the day, power outages can not only be a big inconvenience but a massive safety hazard. Luckily, when you’re properly prepared, you can navigate your way through a power outage with ease.
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