Power outage preparedness is the proactive steps homeowners and business owners can take to ensure safety, comfort, and continuity if there is an electricity supply disruption. Here in Maine and New Hampshire, where winter storms, heavy snow, thunderstorms, and high winds frequently cause outages, preparedness is vital due to the harsh and often prolonged conditions. It can involve a number of steps, from backup power systems and alternative heat sources to insulating pipes to prevent freezing and staying informed during emergencies. To stay and be prepared, Octagon Cleaning & Restoration offers this informative guide and practical tips to help you handle power outages effectively and safely.
Understanding Power Outages
In Maine and New Hampshire, severe weather events commonly cause power outages. Winter, nor’easters, heavy snowstorms, and ice storms can take down power lines. In summer, severe thunder and lightning storms can knock out power to whole communities for hours. High wind gusts during storms or the weight of ice and snow accumulation can fell trees and branches, damaging power lines and utility infrastructure. An occasional late-season hurricane or tropical storm can impact the region, further contributing to outages.
The duration of power outages in Maine and New Hampshire varies but tends to be longer than the national average due to the severity of weather events and the rural nature of some areas, which can slow restoration efforts. Outages can last from several hours to several days, depending on the extent of the damage, where you live, and utility response times.
Secondary Power Sources
Having secondary power sources on hand during a power outage will help maintain basic needs. In a prolonged event, portable generators can power essential appliances like refrigerators and heaters. Though a sizable investment, propane or natural gas-powered standby generators can be permanently installed. They automatically activate during outages and can supply power to the whole house or business. Instead of generators, connecting a solar power inverter to a battery storage system can draw energy that ensures critical appliances, such as refrigerators, lights, and medical devices, can continue to function even when the grid is down. Portable battery power stations offer a quieter, cleaner option for running smaller devices. For heating, wood stoves or pellet stoves are reliable and, of course, independent of electricity.
Protecting Your Home
Preparedness is the best way to protect your house during a winter power outage. Maintaining a comfortable temperature and preventing pipes from freezing are the biggest challenges. The aforementioned wood stoves and pellet stoves can keep much space heated. So can propane heaters, ensuring they are properly ventilated for safety. To conserve heat, close off unused rooms, use heavy curtains or blankets to insulate windows and block drafts under doors with towels. To protect pipes from freezing, allow faucets to drip slightly to keep water flowing, and open cabinet doors under sinks to let warm air circulate around the plumbing. A portable generator or battery backup system can be used to power heating equipment in vulnerable areas like basements. Even better, before winter sets in, take time to insulate exposed pipes with foam or wrap. The best course of action is staying prepared to help mitigate the risks of cold temperatures and frozen pipes during an outage.
Sump Pump Solutions
Where heavy rain and snowmelt can lead to water accumulation, backup systems for sump pumps are vital during power outages to prevent basement flooding. Battery backup sump pumps are a common solution, providing power through a rechargeable battery to keep the pump running for hours or even days, depending on usage. Generators can also power primary sump pumps during outages, ensuring continuous operation. Smart sump pump systems with alarms or monitoring apps can alert homeowners or businesses of potential issues, allowing for prompt action. Ensure the backup systems are regularly maintained and tested to function properly when needed most.
Emergency Kit Checklist
If a major storm is coming, ensure essential items are on hand during a power outage. Flashlights, a battery-powered lamp, and candles can provide light. Portable phone chargers or power banks can help maintain communication. Keep a supply of non-perishable food, such as canned goods, snack bars, and peanut butter. At least one gallon of water per person per day is recommended for drinking and basic needs. During cold outages, keep blankets and heavy clothing accessible. A battery-powered radio can provide weather updates and emergency alerts. Basic medical supplies, including a first aid kit and essential medications, should be readily accessible. For extended outages, having a manual can opener, matches, or lighters for cooking and a backup heating source like a wood stove or propane heater is invaluable.
Communication Plan
A communication plan during extended power outages is a good idea, especially during winter when severe weather disrupts services and isolates communities. A clear plan ensures families and neighbors stay informed about the situation and support one another. Battery-powered radios provide reliable access to weather updates and emergency alerts when electronic devices are down. Portable power banks or solar chargers will charge your mobile phone and maintain connectivity. Regular phone calls to older family members ensure their safety, especially if travel becomes unsafe.
Contact Octagon Cleaning & Restoration
Learning to stay prepared for power outages can protect your property and help weather the storm. If your property sustains any storm-related damage, contact Octagon. We offer 24/7 emergency service every day of the year. Our team of experts specializes in cleaning and natural disaster damage restoration and has helped thousands of businesses and homeowners recover from their losses. To learn more, contact us or, in Maine, call (207) 893-0002 or in New Hampshire, (603) 239-2100.
