Summer Storms & Power Outages: Are You Prepared?
Summer in New England brings beautiful weather, but it also ushers in a season of unpredictable and often severe storms. From sudden thunderstorms with torrential downpours to powerful squalls that can sweep through in minutes, these storms frequently lead to power outages and sometimes even flooding. Are you truly prepared when the lights go out?
A power outage can be more than just an inconvenience; it can disrupt communication, compromise food safety, and even damage valuable electronics. Taking proactive steps now can save you a lot of stress and expense later…
For Everyone: Emergency Preparedness Essentials
When a summer storm knocks out your power, a little preparation goes a long way.
Food Storage & Safety:
Stock Up on Non-perishables: Keep a supply of canned goods, dried fruits, nuts, granola bars, and other foods that don’t require refrigeration or cooking.
Water, Water Everywhere: Have at least a three-day supply of water for drinking and sanitation, about one gallon per person per day.
Refrigerator and Freezer Savvy:
Before a storm, set your refrigerator and freezer to their coldest settings.
Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible. An unopened refrigerator will keep food cold for about 4 hours. A full freezer can maintain its temperature for approximately 48 hours (24 hours if half full).
Use coolers with ice to extend the refrigeration time for essential items.
When in doubt, throw it out! Discard any perishable food (meat, poultry, fish, dairy, eggs, and leftovers) that has been at temperatures above 40°F for more than two hours. It’s always safer to err on the side of caution.
Communication & Backup Plans:
Charge Devices: Keep cell phones, laptops, and portable chargers fully charged, especially when a storm is in the forecast. Consider a hand-crank or solar-powered charger for extended outages.
Emergency Radio: A battery-powered or hand-crank radio can provide vital updates on weather and power restoration.
Family Communication Plan: Discuss with your family how you’ll communicate if cell service is down. Designate an out-of-state contact person who everyone can check in with.
Cash On Hand: ATMs won’t work during power outages, so have some cash available for necessities.
For Homeowners: Protecting Your Investments
New England summers are notorious for lightning strikes and utility issues that can cause power surges. These sudden spikes in voltage can be devastating to your electronics and appliances.
The Hidden Danger of Power Surges:
While a standard homeowners insurance policy typically covers damage from perils like wind and lightning, the coverage for power surge damage to electronics can vary. Many policies offer some protection for “sudden, accidental damage from artificially generated electrical current,” which often includes power surges. However, it’s crucial to understand the limitations.
Personal Property Coverage (Coverage C): This part of your policy usually helps replace or repair damaged electronics and appliances. However, there might be limits on the dollar amount per item or a total limit for all damaged electronics.
Dwelling Coverage (Coverage A): If a surge damages your home’s wiring or built-in appliances like a furnace or water heater, your dwelling coverage may kick in.
Exclusions and Limitations: Some policies might exclude damage to internal components (like tubes or transistors) of electronics if the surge was caused by an “artificially generated current” (e.g., from the utility company). Normal wear and tear or breakdowns due to regular electrical usage are generally not covered. Contact Us today to ensure you have the best coverage for your needs.
Why Additional Coverage Matters:
Given the increasing reliance on electronics in our homes, standard coverage might not be enough to fully replace your damaged computers, televisions, smart home devices, and other valuable equipment after a significant power surge.
This is where additional coverage, often called Equipment Breakdown Coverage, can be incredibly beneficial. This add-on extends protection beyond what a standard policy offers, covering sudden and accidental mechanical or electrical breakdowns of a wider range of appliances and systems in your home, including those caused by power surges. It can even cover the cost of spoiled food if your refrigerator or freezer breaks down due to a covered electrical issue.
Don’t Wait Until the Lights Go Out!
Being prepared for summer storms and potential power outages is about more than just flashlights and bottled water though. It’s about protecting your peace of mind and your valuable assets.
At Slawsby Insurance, we understand the unique challenges New England homeowners face. Our team of experienced local insurance advisors can help you navigate the complexities of homeowners insurance and ensure you have the right coverage for every eventuality. We work with over 20 top local and national carriers to find you the most cost-effective rates and tailored solutions.
Don’t leave your home and electronics vulnerable to the next summer storm. Reach out today at for more information and a personalized quote. We’re here to help you stay protected, rain or shine!
