Every year, tropical storms develop over the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea. While some of these storms can remain relatively harmless, others can wreak havoc on homes and cities, particularly in Texas, which is why it is important to remain prepared. One of the most significant ways you can prepare is by having a plan in place in the event of a power outage:
- Have extra sources of light – Have flashlights for every member of your home and plenty of batteries; do not use candles. Avoid traveling by car since traffic lights will be out and the roads congested. If you are using a generator, be sure to understand the risks of carbon monoxide poisoning and keep it dry, outdoors, and away from any doors, windows, or vents.
- Practice food safety – Keep your refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible. Your food will remain cold for about four hours in an unopened fridge, while a freezer will keep it cold for 48 hours. Eat perishables from the fridge and freezer first, followed by non-perishables. Prepare a cooler with ice if it looks like the power outage will continue beyond a day. Throw out any food (particularly meat, poultry, fish, or eggs) if they’ve been exposed to temperatures higher than 40º F for two hours or more.
- Be careful with electrical equipment – Turn off and unplug all necessary electrical equipment, including your phone charger and any appliances, since when the power comes back on, surges can spark and damage equipment. Leave one light turned on so you’ll know when the power does come back on. If electrical power lines are down, do not touch them and keep your pets and family away.
Contact Us
At Storm Tight Windows of Texas, we offer heavy-duty Hurricane Impact replacement windows and doors that can withstand debris impacts and winds up to 180 mph. If you’re interested in learning more about how our expertly crafted products can help protect your home and family during the most severe weather conditions, contact us today.
