Power outages are unpredictable. One moment you’re binge-watching the latest Netflix series, the next moment...lights out.
It’s annoying. It’s inconvenient. But it’s not the end of the world (we hope). Follow these tips to ensure your family remains safe during the next blackout.
Keep Your Phone Charged
The only thing worse than a power outage is a dead phone. Fortunately, you can keep your mobile device powered up even when the grid goes down.
A good portable charger will set you back about $60 and it will more than pay for itself during next outage, camping trips and anywhere else you need to juice up your phone.
Even without a portable charger, you have options. Provided your laptop has some life left in it, you can plug your phone into its USB port. You can also power it up in your car. Turn on the radio and get local news updates while you’re waiting for the battery icon to turn green.
Go to the Mall
Blackouts can occur during periods of extreme heat, so head to the nearest mall until power is restored. Indoor shopping centers tend to be designated cooling zones during these types of emergencies.
If that’s not an option, try to stay cool in your home. Since cool air sinks, chill out in the basement and wear light clothes.
Turn Your Washing Machine into a Cooler
To prevent your food from spoiling, fill your washing machine with ice and place any items that need to stay cool inside of it. The appliance will drain out water as the ice melts. Refill as needed.
Similarly, if an outage occurs during winter, you can keep your perishables outside if the weather is cold enough.
Make Light
If you don’t have flashlights at the ready -- and you really should -- you may need to come up with makeshift lighting solutions. Place candles by mirrors to reflect more light throughout the house.
If you have a working flashlight, you can create ambiance by pointing the light at a jug of water to create a lantern effect.
MacGyver Some Batteries
You can make AAA batteries fit your electronics that require AA batteries. Simply place a ball of foil between the negative end of the AAA battery and the prong to power up your radio and other gadgets.
When a problem arises with your electrical system, the licensed and certified electricians at A-TEMP Heating, Cooling & Electrical offer top-notch service. We provide emergency electrical in Portland for everything from general repairs to more complicated problems. You can depend on our team to provide comprehensive electrical repairs and cost-effective solutions to any issue with your electrical system.
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A-TEMP Heating, Cooling & Electrical came recommended from a friend who is a current inspector. I've used them for years for furnace and AC maintenance. Their customer service is excellent—helpful, friendly, and persistent in scheduling my maintenance. I appreciate that they've never pushed to replace my old furnace but instead helped me decide when to repair or replace without being pushy about sales. Finding trustworthy repair folks is hard, and I highly recommend them. You won't be disappointed.
A-TEMP Heating, Cooling & Electrical goes above and beyond to take care of their customers. I've been a customer for years and am impressed with the technicians and office staff. The fact that this is a family business is also a plus. Thank you.
A-TEMP Heating, Cooling & Electrical did a wonderful job. They were on time, wore shoe coverings, and worked diligently. They replaced our air filter and an electrical part under warranty, explaining everything clearly. The work was clean and professional, and the team was congenial and pleasant.
Everyone we’ve dealt with has been polite, positive, and very courteous. A-TEMP Heating, Cooling & Electrical quickly replaced our furnace during the coldest part of a snowy winter. Other companies couldn’t get out for 1-2 weeks, but A-TEMP assessed it the same day and replaced it in 2 days. Can’t say enough great things about this company!
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