All native Houstonians know that the risk of blackouts during hurricane season is considerable, but Texas is even at risk for loss of electricity during regular summer days. Without electricity, very few of our typical appliances and home processes are operational. What does that mean for your safety and security while the power is off?
Mission Air Conditioning & Plumbing knows that a loss of power can last anywhere from a few hours to a few days — or more! That’s why we want all our Houston homeowners to be ready for a blackout and know how to keep themselves, their families and their homes safe until the power is restored.
5 Dangers That Can Affect You During A Blackout
When your house isn’t running properly, there are several dangers that put you and your family at risk. Whether you are worried about security or health, make sure you are aware of these top risks while your power is out.
Compromised Security
Any security systems you have in place to secure your home will be nonfunctional. If you have to leave your home, be aware that it may not be as secure as it usually is. Also, if you depend on your security alarm at night, take extra precautions to put your mind at ease until morning. Make sure all your doors and windows are locked and your blinds or curtains are drawn. If you have other means of defending yourself, make sure you have access just in case.
Unreliable Electrical Appliances
Without electricity, you may be lulled into a false sense of security about how safe your home is to operate. For example, if you treat your home like it has no electricity, sudden restoration of power could put you at risk. Use caution when operating garage doors, gates and other large items in your home on manual settings. Try to power off any appliances you can so that bursts of electricity have minimal damage to them or your home.
Dehydration
As soon as your power fails, your AC stops circulating that crisp, cool air around your home. You can imagine how quickly your home will heat up on a hot, sunny day in Houston. Stay aware of your water intake and keep in mind that each member of your household should have access to one gallon of water per day to stay hydrated. What you hope will be a couple of hours without your TV could turn into several days or a week with no power, so you want to make sure your water availability is strong and that everyone in your home drinks more water than usual to avoid becoming dehydrated and needing medical attention.
Heat Stroke
During a power outage, it is best to stay inside as much as possible — especially during the summer. Your home may feel warm and uncomfortable, but getting fresh air outside also exposes your body to more heat and sunlight. Keep calm and watch for signs of heat stroke so that you can seek medical attention.
- Fever
- Altered mental state
- Rapid breathing
- Racing heart rate
- Headache
- Nausea or vomiting
Hunger
While a short power outage may be easy to weather with the food in your fridge or pantry, longer outages caused by hurricanes or severe storms can disrupt food supply. Be prepared by stocking up on non-perishable dry goods that can last your household several days. Long lasting foods include nuts, canned food and protein drinks and bars.
AC Repair After A Power Outage
Unfortunately, the one appliance you wish would work as soon as the power comes back on may struggle. Your air conditioner is highly susceptible to surges in electricity, making AC damage during a blackout a possibility. If your cooling system is not working after a blackout, count on the trustworthy team at Mission Air Conditioning & Plumbing to set things right. We’ll have your home cool and comfortable again in no time!
