1. Check the Scope of the Outage
First, determine if the power outage is limited to your property or affecting a wider area:
Check your circuit breaker to see if a tripped breaker or blown fuse is the culprit.
Look outside to see if streetlights or neighbors still have power.
Call your utility provider to report the outage and get updates on restoration times.
In St. Louis and surrounding Missouri areas, it’s important to report the outage so utility companies can prioritize repairs.
2. Unplug and Power Down Appliances
To prevent damage from power surges when the electricity comes back on:
Turn off and unplug major appliances and electronics.
Leave one light on so you know when the power returns.
If you use a generator, never plug it into a wall outlet. Use it according to safety guidelines and only plug in approved devices.
This step is essential to protect your home from fire hazards or equipment damage caused by voltage spikes when service is restored.
3. Use Flashlights Instead of Candles
When it gets dark, resist the temptation to use candles for light. Open flames in an outage scenario—especially when visibility is limited—increase the risk of accidental fires.
Instead:
Use LED flashlights, lanterns, or headlamps.
Keep backup batteries in your emergency kit.
Rechargeable lanterns or solar-powered lights are great additions for extended outages.
For families with children or pets, safe lighting is especially important to prevent accidents or burns.
4. Keep Refrigerator and Freezer Doors Closed
Food can spoil quickly without power, especially during warmer months. To preserve your groceries as long as possible:
Keep the refrigerator and freezer doors closed.
A full freezer will keep food frozen for about 48 hours; a half-full freezer, about 24 hours.
Use a food thermometer to ensure that perishable items remain below 40°F.
If the outage lasts longer than four hours, be prepared to discard perishable items to avoid foodborne illnesses.
5. Stay Informed
Tune in to a battery-operated or hand-crank radio for updates from local authorities, especially during severe weather. You can also monitor outages on your mobile device if it’s charged and you still have cell service.
Stay informed on:
The estimated restoration time
Weather conditions
Emergency alerts or shelter instructions
Road closures and safety notices
Communication is key during outages, especially in extended or widespread events.
After the Power Returns
Once electricity is restored, take a few final precautions:
Gradually plug in appliances to avoid overloading your circuits.
Inspect electronics and appliances for any signs of damage.
Reset your thermostats, timers, clocks, and Wi-Fi routers.
Restock your emergency kit with used supplies.
If you suspect any damage to your electrical system, contact a licensed electrician immediately.
Professionals at AMF Electric can conduct a post-outage inspection to check for signs of stress on your panel, compromised outlets, or voltage irregularities.
Commercial Power Outage Preparedness
Business owners in St. Louis and St. Charles County should also take proactive steps to ensure business continuity during outages. Power loss can disrupt operations, cause data loss, and impact customer service.
Key steps for businesses include:
Installing a commercial standby generator
Backing up data to cloud storage
Creating a business continuity plan
Maintaining emergency lighting systems
Training staff on safety procedures during outages
As an electrical contractor serving both residential and commercial clients, AMF Electric provides tailored power solutions for small businesses, offices, and retail facilities.
The Role of Electrical Contractors in Emergency Preparedness
Electricians play a vital role in keeping homes and businesses safe before, during, and after power outages. Whether you’re upgrading your panel to support a backup generator, installing surge protection, or rewiring aging infrastructure, it’s essential to work with a licensed, local electrician who understands the unique needs of Missouri homes.
At AMF Electric, we provide comprehensive electrical services to the St. Louis region and beyond, including:
Generator installation and service
Whole-home surge protection
Circuit upgrades and rewiring
Emergency electrical repair
Code-compliant inspections
When the power goes out, peace of mind starts with preparation—and that begins with a reliable electrical system.
Conclusion: Be Proactive, Stay Safe
Power outages can be disruptive, dangerous, and costly—but with the right preparation, they don’t have to be. Whether you’re concerned about winter storms, aging grid infrastructure, or unexpected blackouts, taking proactive steps now can make a world of difference.
By investing in backup power systems, practicing safety protocols, and keeping your electrical system in peak condition, you can ensure your home or business remains safe, efficient, and resilient in any emergency.
If you’re in St. Louis, or nearby communities and need help preparing your home for the unexpected, contact the professionals at AMF Electric. Our licensed electricians are ready to help you stay powered, protected, and prepared—no matter what the forecast holds.
0 Comments