When a hurricane hits, power outages are almost inevitable, especially in regions like Florida, the Gulf Coast, and the southeastern United States. While waiting for the power to return, many people unknowingly make mistakes that can compromise their safety and prolong the discomfort of being without electricity. Here are some of the biggest mistakes customers make when the power goes off during a hurricane — and how to avoid them.
1. Not Having a Backup Power Plan
One of the most common mistakes is failing to prepare a backup power plan before a hurricane strikes. Many homeowners assume the power outage will be short-lived, but it could last days or even weeks, depending on the severity of the storm. Investing in a backup generator, either portable or whole-house, can keep essential appliances running, such as refrigerators, medical devices, and lights.
Solution: Before hurricane season, create a backup plan that includes a generator, portable power banks, and enough fuel to keep things running for an extended period.
2. Improper Use of Generators
For those who have a generator, misusing it is a significant safety risk. Running a generator indoors or too close to the house can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning, which is deadly and difficult to detect because the gas is odorless and invisible. Some people also overload their generators, causing them to overheat or break down.
Solution: Always operate generators outdoors in a well-ventilated area, at least 20 feet away from doors and windows. Avoid overloading the generator by calculating the wattage of the devices you plan to run.
3. Opening the Refrigerator and Freezer Frequently
When the power goes off, one of the biggest mistakes people make is frequently opening the refrigerator and freezer. This allows cold air to escape, causing food to spoil faster. During an extended power outage, every second the fridge stays closed helps preserve your food for a longer time.
Solution: Keep the refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible. A refrigerator will keep food cold for about 4 hours, and a freezer can maintain its temperature for 24 to 48 hours if left unopened.
4. Not Having Enough Supplies
Many people underestimate the amount of supplies they will need during a power outage caused by a hurricane. Items such as bottled water, non-perishable food, batteries, flashlights, and fuel for generators can run out quickly. If stores are closed or roads are blocked, restocking these essentials can be impossible.
Solution: Stock up on at least three days' worth of essentials, including bottled water, canned goods, batteries, and medical supplies. Don’t wait until the last minute when supplies are limited and panic buying sets in.
5. Relying on Candles for Light
While candles might seem like a go-to source of light during a power outage, they pose a serious fire hazard, especially during a hurricane when wind and storm conditions increase the likelihood of accidents. Falling asleep with candles lit or leaving them unattended can lead to dangerous situations.
Solution: Use battery-powered flashlights or lanterns instead of candles. Stock up on extra batteries to ensure you have enough power to last through an extended outage.
6. Not Charging Devices Ahead of Time
When the power goes off, communication is critical. One mistake many people make is not charging their phones, tablets, or portable power banks ahead of the storm. Without a charged device, it becomes difficult to receive emergency updates or call for help if needed.
Solution: Fully charge all your devices before the hurricane hits. Invest in portable power banks to recharge phones and other devices if the outage lasts longer than expected.
7. Ignoring Electrical Safety After Power Is Restored
Once the power is restored, people often rush to turn everything back on without thinking about electrical safety. Appliances that were on during the outage could cause power surges or circuit overloads when electricity returns, which can lead to electrical fires or damage.
Solution: Unplug major appliances and devices during the outage. Once the power returns, plug them back in one at a time to avoid overloading circuits.
8. Failing to Follow Local Power Company Updates
During a hurricane, many customers make the mistake of not staying informed about the power restoration process. Power companies often provide updates on outages, estimated restoration times, and safety tips via their websites, social media, or local news. Ignoring these updates can lead to confusion and frustration.
Solution: Stay updated by following your local utility company online or signing up for text alerts. Keep a battery-powered radio on hand for emergency announcements in case your phone runs out of battery.