When the lights go out

Power outages happen here more often than many people realize. Heavy snow can bend trees down or break their branches, resting on power lines. Winter storms coat everything in a thick layer of ice that weighs down electrical wires until they snap. Strong winds during spring breakup can knock down poles or knock trees into the lines. A car accident can take out a transformer and leave hundreds of homes in the dark. Understanding these risks is the first step in protecting your family.

The most important thing to remember is that losing power means losing heat in winter. Most of our furnaces need electricity to run, even if they burn oil or natural gas. Without power, your home can drop to dangerous temperatures in just a few hours. This makes having a backup heating plan absolutely critical for survival.

Many families keep small generators for emergencies. If you choose this option, never run a generator inside your home, garage, or even near a window. Generators produce carbon monoxide, an invisible gas that can kill you. Always place generators at least twenty feet away from your house. Make sure you store extra fuel safely and know how to operate the generator before an emergency happens.

Wood stoves and fireplaces offer another heating option during outages. If you have one, keep it well maintained and stock plenty of dry firewood before winter arrives. Remember that even a small fire can keep one room warm enough for your family to gather safely. Some people also use propane heaters designed for indoor use, but these require proper ventilation and careful attention.

Food safety becomes another concern when the power goes out. Your refrigerator will keep food cold for about four hours if you keep the door closed. A full freezer stays frozen for about forty-eight hours, while a half-full freezer lasts about twenty-four hours. This all depends on your not opening the doors during the outage. During the winter, it is wise to use the cold outside to your advantage by placing food in coolers on your porch. However, you should not put freeze-sensitive foods outside in freezing weather.

Every home should have an emergency kit ready before disaster strikes. This kit should include flashlights with extra batteries, a battery-powered radio to hear emergency broadcasts, bottled water, and non-perishable food that does not need cooking. Include any medications your family needs, a first aid kit, and warm blankets. Keep your cell phone charged and consider buying a portable charger that works without electricity.

The Mat-Su Borough Office of Emergency Management provides excellent resources for disaster preparedness. You can visit their office or check the borough website for detailed information about creating emergency plans. Your local fire department also often has information at the fire stations.

The Alaska Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management also maintains helpful guides specifically designed for Alaska conditions. Their website includes checklists and planning tools that make preparation easier. The American Red Cross of Alaska offers classes in Mat-Su on emergency preparedness and first aid.

Remember to check on elderly neighbors and those with medical needs during outages. Some people depend on electricity for medical equipment or have difficulty staying warm. A simple phone call or visit could save a life.

Don’t forget that our pets depend on us. They cannot plan, prepare, or store anything. Have pet food and supplies in your emergency kit for every animal you have.

Being prepared is not about living in fear. It is about taking responsibility for your family’s safety and comfort. Start small by assembling a basic emergency kit this week. Your future self will thank you when the lights go out.

Christian M. Hartley is a 40-year Alaskan resident with over 25 years of public safety experience and public service. He runs a freelance business, Big Lake Writer, from home in Big Lake that he shares with his wife of 19 years and their three teenage sons.