How to Survive a Power Outage

We're pretty dependant on eletricity. Phones. A/C. Oven. But no matter how accustomed we get to our modern conveniences, we can find ourselves in literal darkness if there is a power outage.

Many people prepare for power outages before a harsh winter, but the truth is you can lose electrical power no matter the season, temperature, or environment. Common causes of power failure include high winds, cars crashing into utility poles, rogue tree limbs during a storm or while being trimmed, interference from small animals like squirrels and birds, or even overloading a circuit breaker.

Regardless of how you lose your power supply, you can easily stay safe during a blackout by following just a few simple steps.

Update Your Emergency Supply List

When you find yourself in darkness, you're going to need a few supplies. Always be prepared by keeping your emergency supplies up-to-date and ready to grab.

• Flashlights. Make sure everyone in your family has a flashlight on hand (and maybe even a few more) with plenty of extra batteries for all. You will need to check which type of battery your flashlights require so you have an ample supply.

• Candles. Even though they tend not to last as long as flashlights and are less safe, they can be handy in a pinch, so stock up on candles and matches as well.

• Phone. Try to keep your cell phone charged as much as possible as a general rule, and especially if there is a threat of a power outage. If the power does go out, put your phone in low power mode or even turn it off completely if you don't need to use it. Limit usage to essential texts and calls only. It's a good idea to have an extra charging block on hand (make sure it's full charged).

• Water. You will need to stay hydrated, especially in summer when the temperature is high. Keep a large store of bottled water, at least a gallon of water per person in your home.

• Warmth. In winter, be prepared with the proper equipment for a blackout in a lower temperature, such as extra blankets, sweaters, and socks for everyone.

• Food. Most people won't be able to cook food during a power outage, so strategically consume food. If there is safe food in your fridge that you can eat without cooking, now would be a great time to use it. As a back-up, always keep nonperishable food on hand.

• Baby Wipes or Hand Sanitizer. If you end up not having access to running water, you'll still want to stay clean. These are great supplies to always have ready.

• Gas. It's wise to always keep at least a half tank of gas in the car so you can avoid the pump. Even if the streets are not plugged up during a power outage, you can bet the gas stations will be busy, that is, if they are open at all. Many gas stations use electric pumps.

• Generator. This item maybe not be in everyone's budget, but it's important to consider. If you are interested in having access to power or have medical issues that require access to power, you might want to invest in a generator. Always follow directions and use safely.

Home Security During a Power Outage

Never underestimate the importance of home security during an emergency. Sometimes criminals take advantage of emergency situations by looting or vandalizing, so having a home security system will keep you protected. Cove can help.

If you encounter a blackout, there is no need to worry, since Cove has a backup battery your system will continue to function for up to 24 hours after a power outage.

RELATED: Power Outage: Will Cove Home Security Still Work?

This is especially important as power failures can sometimes lead to flooding or freezing. A water leak / pipe freeze detector from Cove will alert you if there is moisture or if the temperature gets too low, whether you're home or away, any day of the year.

Power Outage Alerts from Cove

If you're not home during a power outage, did you know that your Cove home security system will alert you? That's a great feature of of Cove's Touch Alarm Panel and the Cove Connect app. That way you can stay in-the-know if you have a generator, sump pump, fish tank, or other items that need attention during a power outage.

Take Advantage of Down Time

Power outages do not have to be bleak. When you are prepared and alert with the proper supplies and systems, you can enjoy the unique and hopefully brief experience of a power outage in the comfort of your well-stocked home.

Spend time with your family playing board games, telling stories, or reading a good book (some Edgar Allan Poe might be quite an adventure in the dark, if you are up for it). If you have any ice cream in your freezer, now would be a good time to use it before it melts.