You do not need a crystal ball to know that the next power outage is coming.  You may not know when the electricity will go out, but you do know that it will.  No matter how reliable the local power grid, a downed line or blown transformer could leave you in the dark.

It may not be possible to predict when the next power outage will hit, but you can prepare for it.  The time to get ready is now, and these simple steps can keep your home and family safe.

  • Inventory your emergency supplies.  Make sure you have a flashlight and extra batteries for each member of the family, as well as shelf-stable food and plenty of water.

  • Record the phone numbers for the local power company and emergency responders.  Write the numbers down and keep - do not rely solely on your smartphone.

  • Sign up for emergency alerts.  These alerts can provide notice of severe weather and local power outages.

  • Install carbon monoxide detectors throughout your home.  This is especially important if you plan to use a generator or rely on space heaters to stay warm during a power outage.

  • Make sure your landline phone, if you have one, will work during a power outage.  Cordless phones rely on electricity, so having a spare corded phone might come in handy.

  • Keep your cell phone fully charged.  You never know when you will need it.

  • Stock your pantry with shelf-stable foods.  Having a supply of foods that do not need to be cooked will allow you to keep yourself, and your loved ones, fed.

  • Fill empty jugs with water and store them in a safe place.  If you have advance notice of a storm or severe weather, take the time to fill your bathtub as well.  This will allow you to flush toilets, bathe and keep yourself clean until power is restored.

You never know when the next power outage will strike, and the best thing you can do is prepare for the inevitable.  Every part of the country suffers from severe weather at some point, and those challenging weather conditions often leave downed power lines in their wake.

For now, the power is still on, so take advantage of that fact and make sure your home is prepared.  If you are properly prepared, you can weather the storm and emerge unscathed.