Whether caused by severe weather, downed power lines, or equipment failure, power outages can strike at any time—and often when we least expect them. For South Carolina residents, storms, hurricanes, and high winds are common culprits. Preparing ahead of time can make all the difference in keeping your home and family safe.
Build an Emergency Kit
Having supplies ready before an outage occurs is essential. Make sure your kit includes:
- Flashlights and extra batteries (avoid relying on candles for fire safety).
- Portable phone chargers or power banks.
- Bottled water (one gallon per person, per day for at least three days).
- Non-perishable food that doesn’t require cooking.
- First-aid kit with any prescription medications.
- Manual can opener.
Protect Your Home
- Unplug electronics: Prevent damage from power surges when electricity is restored.
- Use surge protectors: Especially for computers, TVs, and appliances.
- Install a generator: A standby or portable generator can keep essentials running, but always use it safely outdoors and away from windows.
Stay Informed
- Sign up for local alerts: Many South Carolina counties offer weather and outage notifications.
- Keep a battery-powered or hand-crank radio: This ensures you can get updates even if cell towers are down.
Safety First During an Outage
- Avoid opening refrigerators and freezers: A full freezer can keep food cold for up to 48 hours.
- Use grills, camp stoves, generators and propane heaters outdoors only: Carbon monoxide is a deadly risk indoors.
- Check on neighbors: Elderly or vulnerable individuals may need assistance.
After Power Is Restored
- Check food safety: If perishable food has been above 40°F for more than 2 hours, it should be discarded.
- Reset appliances and devices: Make sure everything powers back on correctly.
- Document damages: If the outage causes property damage (like spoiled food from an extended blackout or electrical surges damaging appliances), take photos and keep receipts for insurance purposes.
Why Insurance Matters
While preparation is key, sometimes outages cause unavoidable damage. Homeowners or renters insurance may help cover certain losses, such as food spoilage, damaged electronics, or even hotel stays if your home becomes unlivable. The right coverage ensures you’re not left in the dark financially.
Final Thoughts
Power outages are inconvenient at best and dangerous at worst. With the right preparation, you can minimize risks, protect your property, and keep your family safe.
Have questions about what your insurance covers during a power outage? Contact South Carolina Insurance Brokers today to review your policy and make sure you’re protected.
