Handling Power Outages: A Guide for Tenants
| Read time: 2 min
Image: courtesy of Rachel Barton/Texas A&M Engineering
Power outages can be an unexpected inconvenience, but knowing how to respond can help you stay safe and minimize disruption. Here’s what to do if your rental property experiences a power outage:
- Stay Calm and Assess the Situation
First, determine whether the outage is affecting your entire building or just your unit. Check if your neighbours have power or if streetlights are on outside. This can help identify whether the issue is isolated or widespread.
- Report the Outage
If the outage is widespread, contact your local utility company for updates and estimated restoration times. If the outage is specific to your unit, contact Schinkel Properties’ maintenance team for assistance. Provide details about when the outage occurred and any unusual circumstances.
- Unplug Electronics
To prevent damage from potential power surges when electricity is restored, unplug sensitive electronics such as computers, televisions, and kitchen appliances. Leave one light switched on so you’ll know when power is back.
- Use Emergency Lighting
Avoid using candles, as they can be a fire hazard. Instead, use flashlights or battery-powered lanterns to navigate your home safely.
- Keep Refrigerators and Freezers Closed
To keep food cold for as long as possible, minimize opening the refrigerator and freezer. A refrigerator will keep food cold for about four hours if unopened, while a full freezer will maintain its temperature for about 48 hours.
- Stay Informed
Keep your phone charged and use it to stay updated on the situation via local news or utility company alerts. If the outage lasts longer than expected, consider staying with friends or family until power is restored.
- Report Any Issues Post-Outage
Once power is restored, report any issues like damaged appliances or malfunctioning systems to Schinkel Properties’ maintenance team. This ensures that any problems are promptly addressed.
By following these steps, you can navigate power outages safely and effectively, ensuring minimal disruption to your daily life.