Looking Head: Prepare for the Next Power Outage Now to Protect Your Home and Loved Ones
In the wake of Hurricane Beryl and the prolonged power outages experienced in the Houston area, it's crucial to stock up on essential supplies for the next storm that can ensure your comfort and safety, particularly in the intense summer heat. Once it is reasonable feasible to make your purchases, it's better to be prepared ahead of time than to wait for the next storm and go up against low or complete lack of supplies.
Many of the items we have listed are normally suited for camping. When the power goes out, camping gear is often the perfect choice since most camping items do not rely on working electricity or any electricity at all. Here are key items to have on hand, including several items you might not have ever thought of purchasing for power outages and hurricanes:
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Water and Non-Perishable Food: Maintain a supply of bottled water (at least one gallon per person per day) and non-perishable food items like canned goods and energy bars.
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Portable Generator: Consider a generator to power essential appliances like refrigerators and fans. Ensure it's used safely outdoors to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
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Water Container: Water containers that hold 5 or 7 gallons can be especially handy during a power outage, as they can be filled when the power first goes out. Many water containers also have a manual spigot that makes dispensing water easy and convenient. Remember not to wait to fill it, as it is possible for public utilities to go under boil water notices or for water service to stop entirely in the event of a catastrophic system failure.
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Battery-Powered or Hand-Crank Radio: Stay informed about weather updates, emergency instructions, and community resources.
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Flashlights, Lanterns, and Extra Batteries: Essential for navigating in the dark. Opt for LED lights for longer battery life.
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Camping Stove: If you do not have a gas stove in your home, consider purchasing a camping stove. They are powered by small canisters of propane, with adapters available to connect to larger propane tanks. Be sure to have extra propane on hand. Never use one indoors - always use them outside.
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Cooling Supplies: Pack hand-held misters, instant cold packs, and cooling towels to beat the heat. Consider purchasing a portable air conditioner or window unit if feasible. Although you might only use it a couple times a year, you will be glad you have it when you need it. Of course, you will need a suitable generator to power either a portable air conditioning unit or window unit.
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Manual Can Opener: Ensure you can access canned food without electricity.
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Battery-Operated Fans: Provide immediate relief from heat indoors. Position them strategically to circulate air effectively.
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- Pet Supplies: Pack food, water, medications, and comfort items for your pets.
- First Aid Kit: Include bandages, medications, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Don't forget any necessary prescription medications.
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Portable Phone Chargers and Solar Chargers: Keep your devices powered for communication and emergency alerts.
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Cash: Have some cash in small denominations as ATMs and credit card machines may not work during power outages.
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Personal Hygiene Items: Include toiletries, toilet paper, hand sanitizer, and wet wipes.
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Important Documents and Contact Information: Store copies of identification, insurance policies, and emergency contacts in a waterproof container or secure digital format. Be sure these are in an accessible location in the event of quick evacuation.
- Percolator: Are you a coffee lover? Purchase a camping percolator to brew coffee on your gas stove or camping stove when the power goes out. Just be sure that your coffee is in ground form, or have a manual grinder on hand to freshly grind your beans.
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By preparing these essential supplies ahead of time, including cooling solutions like fans and generators, you can be ready to face the challenges of future hurricanes and power outages, ensuring your family remains comfortable and safe in difficult circumstances. Regularly update your emergency kit and stay informed about local emergency procedures to stay prepared.
Editors Note: My Neighborhood News may make a commission from the items listed in this article.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
