What to Do When the Power Goes Out in a Storm

Ever notice how some folks get their power back in hours while others sit in the dark for days on end during a power outage? When storms knock out electricity, knowing what to do next could mean the difference between staying safe and facing serious trouble.

Here's something that'll surprise you: most blackouts happen because tree branches crash into power lines, not because lightning zaps electrical stuff directly. That's why power crews spend so much time chopping branches away from wires all year long.

Don't Panic - Take It Step by Step

When everything goes dark, resist the urge to stumble around looking for stuff! Your eyes need a few minutes to adjust to the darkness. When ready, track down your emergency flashlight right away. Smart families keep flashlights scattered around the house in spots everyone knows about. Check these monthly to make sure batteries haven't died on you. LED flashlights beat the old-fashioned kind hands down - they last longer and don't get burning hot.

Avoid Fire Hazards: