Apartment Family Prep
Recently it was reported that a 72-hours is the most common time frame for service outages in many areas. Current events have left many trying to cope with much more serious matters which strongly suggests apartment emergency prep. Temporary power outages are generally more of an inconvenience than anything else, but this is not true for all. Certain groups may need a higher level of assistance than other.
Apartment Power Outage Prep
As mentioned, service interruptions in general are mostly annoying, if they are short-term. There are several items that you should have on hand just in case. You may not ever need to use any of them, but it is better to be safe than sorry. Get a tote or a 5-gallon bucket with a tight-fitting lid to store your prep collection in. Below is a list of a few things that you will likely need. Customize it to fit your family, and perhaps neighbor’s needs. You should also keep in mind what is common in your area. Some experience power outages while for others it may be a gas interruption or both.
- Batteries
- Flash Lights
- Candles
- Matches or Lighter
- Snacks & Non-Perishable foods
- Fully Charged Power Bank
- Magazines, Paper, & Writing Instruments
- Whistle or Loud Noise Maker
- Required Medications
- Cooler & Frozen – Ice Packs
- Hot Hands
- Water & Electrolytes
- A List of Important Contacts & Identification Info
Tip: This is not a complete list of the items your family may need in the event that your complex experiences a short-term outage. Check with your apartment manager for specific details for such emergencies.
Apartment Service Interruption Tips
Below are several handy tips to keep in mind during emergencies. Again, you should tailor this to suit your family and neighborhood.
- Remain calm and cool at all times.
- Special precautions for open flames may apply to natural gas users.
- Only turn your flashlight on when you must.
- Go through your apartment and systematically turn off all switches and appliances.
- Open your refrigerator and freezer as little as possible to keep your food cold.
- Make sure all your devices are fully charged, particularly your cell phone and power banks.
- Check on your neighbors to see, if they need help, especially those who may be immobile or otherwise challenged.
- Keep everyone in your home together and calm.
- Use the paper materials to entertain and occupy children.
- Report your outage to everyone required.