Staying cool if the power goes out

Every year summer storms cause electricity outages around the country. In Nevada, Arizona, and other desert regions, power outages can be very dangerous. Sometimes these grid-down situations happen for no apparent reason, such as the outages in Carson last month. Other incidents this year include:

· In July 2017 nearly 4,400 Carson residents had a widespread power outage of an unknown origin.

· Thousands were without power in Henderson and Las Vegas, when bad weather knocked down 27 power poles.

· Another 21,000 were affected by power outages caused by bad weather in March.

It’s inevitable that your family will be affected by a power outage. That’s why it’s a good idea to make a plan — now. Having a plan will help your family quickly cope with a situation that could be, at best, uncomfortable, and, at worst, dangerous.

So, how will you and your family stay cool in a power outage?

Staying Cool When The Air Conditioner Isn’t

 

It’s hard to believe, but air conditioning is a relatively new invention. 60 years ago we didn’t even have a/c!

While it certainly has enabled us to live in one of the hottest places in the U.S., it’s important to note that in other parts of the world it’s not a necessity, but a luxury.

But here in the desert, if you are the elderly or infant, an air conditioner going out can be very dangerous.

What To Do?

 

It might be a good idea to invest in a handful of battery-operated fans to put throughout the house in the event of a power outage. Some other tips include:

· If the power goes out during the daytime, first make sure all your shades are drawn.

· If it’s at night and cool, open your home up to cool it off.

· In the daytime, you can try a trick that some people still do in the south: Wet a sheet and hang it in your doorway. The evaporation can turn a warm breeze into a mister.

· You can also wet sheets, wring them out, and then sleep on them to stay cooler.

· Another tip is to jump in the pool. A cool dip before bedtime will help you sleep.

· Also, drink as much water or other cool liquids to help keep your body’s temperature down.

· Try not to eat hot foods or beverages; try light salads or fruit with some lemonade to keep cool.

· If you have a dog or cat, trying hosing them down with cool water – if they’ll let you.

· The old trick of wetting a cool cloth for the back of your neck is always nice.

· Or, try filling water-misting bottles with cold water to spritz the back of your neck, wrists, and behind the knees to stay cool.

It’s always a good idea to have a battery operated weather alert radio on hand. That way if emergency shelters open up near you and the heat is too intense, you can head over there. Or, load everyone in the car (including pets!), crank the air and take a drive.

If the power is up but your air conditioner still isn’t working, call Ambient Edge!