What to Do When the Lights Go Out
Summertime is a stormy time in many parts of the Midwest and the deep South. So much so that it is not unusual for the power to go out multiple times during the season. It is just part of living in an area where thunderstorms, winds, and hail can be severe. If you have wireless security and home automation equipment in your home, there are some things you should know in preparation for the lights going out.
To start with, be aware that wireless security and home automation devices are designed to run on lithium-ion batteries. Therefore, the devices themselves will still operate even when you have no power. You may lose some functionality due to the simple fact that things such as your furnace or air conditioning are not going to work in a power outage. So while the wireless thermostat still works, your air conditioning unit will not respond.
Also remember that as long as the storm has not knocked out cellular connections, your burglar alarm, cameras, and smoke detectors will still work. Not having to rely on built-in wiring and landline telephones makes wireless systems ideal under such conditions.
Don’t Panic; the World Hasn’t Ended
If and when the lights do go out this summer, don’t panic. Multiple generations of our ancestors lived normal lives without any electricity at all. Surely you and I can get by for a few hours if a storm knocks the power out. We can even get by for days or weeks if push comes to shove.
Should the power go out, just take a deep breath and relax. Reassure the kids that everything will be fine in due course, then find things to do that will take your mind off the power outage until the lights come back on.
Be Very Careful with Candles
Candles are a popular source of light when the power goes out, but they are also dangerous. Candles left unattended cause hundreds of house fires every year, resulting in extensive property damage, serious injury, and even death.
If you do choose to use candles, keep them away from draperies, upholstered furniture, and anything else that is even slightly flammable. And never leave a room with a burning candle. Take the candle with you or blow it out before you go.
Check for Additional Weather Alerts
It is always a good idea to check for further weather alerts if a strong storm knocks out power. You have two options here: a battery-operated transistor radio or your cell phone. Staying abreast of the weather will give you at least some time to prepare for another strong storm that might be on the way. If you live in an area prone to tornadoes or hurricanes, we recommend getting a dedicated weather radio. Weather radios are great tools for being prepared.
Before the Storm Hits
Lastly, the lithium-ion batteries in your wireless security and home automation devices should last about eight or nine months before requiring a recharge or replacement. If you are anywhere near that point and you know bad weather is coming, it might be a good idea to put fresh batteries in to get you through the storm. That way, you will still have functionality for your security devices if the power does go out.
Sometimes the lights go out as a result of severe summer weather. If it happens to you, just relax and go with it. You will make it through if you keep yourself together. As an added bonus, you will have some great stories to tell years down the road.
