Stay Safe when the Lights go Off

No matter where you live, weather just happens. Heavy rains that keep the kids inside for hours at a time turns the home into a jail of frustrated and bored kids. If the heavy rains trigger floods or power outages, the anxiety level is raised even more.

Thunderstorms, blizzards, tornados and earthquakes, gales and hurricanes are all conditions that can raise havoc in any area of the country. As mom’s anxiety level rises, so does that of the kids. All mom can do is make sure that emergency supplies have been put aside in case the worse happens and concentrate on making her family feel safe.

Power outages accompany many extreme weather occurrences. Sometimes they just happen on their own. If you experience a power failure, you still have to keep the kids warm and fed. Don’t forget it’s up to you to keep them safe.

Power Generators

Portable power generators are kept by many families who experience frequent outages. They have their dangers as well as their benefits.

The exhaust fumes of a power generator can become deadly if inhaled. They have high levels of carbon monoxide. Even if your basement, shed, garage or crawlspace is ventilated, don’t be tempted to use them in those areas.

The portable generator should be placed outside in dry areas, well away from windows, vents or doors that would let the carbon monoxide enter the home and quickly overwhelm the occupants.

Remember than generators sold for home use are generally not weatherproofed. If they are used on wet conditions they can cause shock or electrocution. Wait until the rain stops before you use an unprotected generator.

If the generator is in use and you or the kids start to feel dizzy, weak or sick, get out side to fresh air right away. Carbon monoxide acts quickly and people can be incapacitated almost immediately.

Make sure that smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms are installed in the home and that they have batteries and are working.

For the families who don’t have a power generator and are using charcoal grills to prepare meals, please remember that burning charcoal also produces deadly levels of carbon monoxide. Keep the grill outside. Never take the chance of using them inside of the home or other enclosed space.