The average American experiences about 8 hours of power outages annually based on data from the U.S. EIA (Energy Information Administration). Of course, this number varies considerably; is caused by a variety of factors; and in most cases, is utterly unpredictable. Excluding major catastrophes, the average duration is about 2 hours.
The objective then is to prepare in order to ensure safety, comfort, and continuity for both your home and office. Here are some steps to get ready:
1. Create a basic Emergency Kit
Prepare a kit that covers basic necessities for both home and office.
- LED Flashlights – At least one per person, with extra batteries. LED lights consume less power and can last for hours on a single charge or set of batteries. Avoid using cell phones as flashlights as the power should be conserved for communication purposes and news updates. Also lantern flashlights give 360 degree lighting especially comforting for children.
- Portable phone chargers or power banks
- First-aid supplies
- Blankets – Yes even at the office.
- Several anti-bacterial wet wipe packets.
- Non-perishable dried food.
- Updated first aid kit – Medication and medical equipment if there are people with special needs.
- An emergency instruction list (like this one or an abridged version) to ensure safety and to avoid panic.
2. Backup Power
- Home:
- Portable Generator: Invest in a generator that can run essential appliances like heaters, refrigerators, or medical devices. Be sure to use it outside, away from windows, to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Solar Power Banks or Battery Systems: Solar chargers for small electronics or battery backup systems can help power crucial devices during extended outages.
- Office:
- Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS): Install UPS devices for computers and sensitive electronics to prevent data loss.
- Backup Generator: For larger offices, consider installing a permanent backup generator to keep critical systems running.
3. Heating Solutions
- Home:
- Alternative Heating Source: If your power goes off, in most cases your gas forced air heater will not work. A portable generator powering a space heater, a fireplace or a wood stove are good backups. Do not use propane heaters like your barbecue grill indoors, as they generate deadly carbon monoxide.
- Office:
- Generator-powered space heaters.
4. Communications and Lighting
- Home:
- Communication Plan: Lack of WiFi or heavy area may make cell phones difficult to use. Texting is sometimes more effective. Avoid panic by placing basic outage instructions in your Emergency Kit
- LED Lanterns and Candles: Stock LED lanterns or battery-operated candles for extended outages.
- Office:
- Communication Plans: Ensure staff know how to stay in touch during power outages and have a chain of command for decision-making.
- Battery-Powered Lights: Have battery-powered lamps or lanterns in key locations to maintain visibility in emergency exits. Make sure exit doors are unblocked and unlocked.
5. Stay Warm
- Home:
- Layer Clothing: Wear multiple layers of clothing, including thermal underwear, socks, and hats.
- Close Off Unused Rooms: Close doors to rooms you’re not using to conserve heat.
- Office:
- Keep important areas (like server rooms) warm and secure to avoid damage to equipment.
6. Workplace Continuity Plan
- Remote Work Capabilities: If possible, equip employees to work from home in case power outages affect the office. Ensure everyone has access to essential documents and communication tools.
- Data Backup: Frequently back up important files and systems, and ensure you have cloud-based or off-site access.
7. Know How to Shut Off Utilities
- Home:
- Know how to shut off gas, water, and electricity if there’s a risk of damage or frozen pipes.
- Office:
- Have designated personnel trained in shutting off utilities in case of emergencies.
8. Maintenance and Preparation
- Home:
- Fireplace Check: Ensure your fireplace or wood stove is cleaned and functional.
- Generator Test: Test your generator to make sure it’s working and keep extra fuel stored safely.
- Pipe Check: Make sure pipes are not in areas that cause them to freeze and burst.
- Office:
- Perform regular checks on backup power systems, and ensure critical equipment is protected from power surges or outages.
With these measures, you’ll be well-prepared to handle winter power outages, ensuring both comfort at home and continuity at the office.
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If you ever have any questions or would like a quote for janitorial or managed labor services, feel free to contact us at any time at
440 West Bonner Rd. Wauconda, IL 60084 IS
(847) 526-9556