In our current society, people typically take it for granted that electricity to their homes will always be available to run their TVs freezers and air conditioning units, until the time comes that the lights have gone out. Our society is not prepared to handle long term power outages and should become more aware of the exposure. Make your plans today to prepare for an eventual outage that may last more than several days.

Tip 1 - Develop a Strategy
There are alternative sources of power that can supplement or even replace the power received from local utility companies, but these are long term strategies that many do not plan for. Wind, Solar and other technologies are becoming more mainstream as new products come to market to meet the demands of consumers. A long term strategy to supply free energy to your home is an important aspect of self sustaining power independence.

Tip 2 - Create a Blackout Kit
Power outages can generate widespread chaos and panic. If you and your family are not prepared for the worst case scenarios, it could lead to real safety issues. Having a blackout emergency kit is a prudent way to be ready if the emergency situation occurs. Essential items for your kit should include items focused directly on; food, water, communication abilities and light and heat generation.

Tip 3 - Alternatives to Standard Batteries
D Cell batteries are not an option for long term power generation for radios and flashlights. Of course they are good in a pinch for short term usage, but long term outages require a more sustainable source of power for generating power for your portable devices. As panic sets in, a rush on the local stores for batteries and other items will be obvious. Do not get caught in the herd by having prepared yourself with devices that use kinetic energy for light and radio communication.

Tip 4 - Purchase a Power Inverter
A power inverter may also be something that would be added to your blackout kit. This small portable device will take a normal DC battery from a car or boat battery and convert it into an AC current sufficient to run items in your home like a microwave or other small appliances. It could be invaluable to supply the small electric power needed to run your well water pump or oil boiler.

Tip 5 - Create an Emergency Storage Space
Set aside a location in your home or garage to keep the necessary survival items. Having an area like this set aside prior to an emergency will which will be much better than trying to hunt down these items in the dark. Your inventory of blankets, batteries and can goods will be kept in a specific area when needed.

Tip 6 - Stock up on necessary Items
Storing the right food for surviving a power outage should be part of your strategy. Can goods are the obvious choice to keep in your emergency storage space, but storing grains like rice or cornmeal in plastic 5 gallon containers may be something to consider as well.

These grains can easily be part of your meal planning during a power outage. Do not forget to keep a manual can opener in your survival space. Dried lentils and beans are other staples to have on hand. They can be easily soaked in water and added to a variety of meals.

Access to drinking water is crucial when current systems are down. Bottled water should be one of the major items you keep in your inventory. If your water supply is affected, you want to ensure safe water is available for drinking and cooking.

Do not waste your drinking water for flushing the toilets. If they do not work during an outage, you can use water from your rain barrel as a source of water for your tanks. This may not be an option in the winter, due to freezing temperatures, so plan accordingly.

Tip 7 - Plan to cook your food without electricity

One additional thing to consider when thinking about meal preparation; how will you cook when the stove or oven are inoperable?

The answer is your gas or charcoal grill. These are great alternatives that can be used as a backup oven and stove when needed. Even though most people have a grill for backyard functions, most people have at least one when needed. Your gas or charcoal grill can even act as a temporary oven for baking breads and other meals during the outage. Having spare propane or charcoal on hand is essential in being able to cook your food during this period.

In conclusion, it is important to make your plans for riding out a long term power outage. Adopting some or all of these tips can help you make the best of a bad situation if and when it occurs.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Montgomery_Emerson