Keeping Safe During Power Outage

You’ve had a professional security system installed in your home. You’re enjoying the peace of mind that comes with having home security. Then a terrible thought strikes you. What if the power goes out? What happens to your alarm system?

Many homeowners worry about burglary during power outages, especially as summer storms become more frequent. Your house could be without power for days, which is especially unnerving if you’re away from home. Thankfully, there are few actionable steps you can take to keep your home security up and running during a power outage.

As dusk approaches, neighborhoods get busy quickly. The sidewalks begin bustling with trick-or-treaters and the streets start filling up with cars, and the chaos can become distracting. Make sure your children are completely visible to drivers at all times by giving each one of them a flashlight or glow stick to tote along as they walk. Flashlights also help light up walkways to avoid tripping and falling along the way.

Many home security camera systems are battery or solar-powered. Even when the power goes out, they can still record footage. Plus, if they’re easily spotted, their mere presence can deter burglars. If you haven’t yet, install some of these cameras to bolster your home security. Although you won’t be able to monitor the live feed without wi-fi, your cameras can help capture any burglary attempts and may provide you with valuable footage to use during an investigation.

Some systems can maintain communication even during a power outage. For example, if you have a landline or a built-in cellular communicator, the system can still contact the authorities. Just be sure that the control panel is connected to backup power, as described above. However, systems that use VoIP or Wi-Fi will not work without internet, which goes out when the power does.

Security experts agree that burglars are less likely to strike a home that appears occupied and well lit. While a widespread power outage could limit your lighting options, there are still ways for you to avoid being totally in the dark.

Aside from using external backup power for your normal lighting fixtures, you can also get rechargeable bulbs with their own built-in backup power supply. Some of the more advanced examples can actually be programmed to go on at certain times, following the normal behavior of the occupants; this is especially useful if you happen to be out of the house when it loses power.

Remember, you should always have flashlights, battery-powered lanterns, and emergency candles on hand regardless of the situation. If you can’t keep your security system on, use these items to light up your home.

Home security should never rely upon a single device or system. Always have multiple, complementary systems set up in case one or more fails. It’s also worth the investment to install robust door locks and burglar-proof your windows. Many burglars plan for weeks before they hit a house. Tornadoes, flash floods, thunderstorms, and other situations that cause power outages present opportunities to these criminals. Being proactive with your home security goes a long way toward protecting your home, even during a power outage or other emergency.

At Frase Protection, we’re honored to serve as a security partner for homeowners across the Memphis area. Our smart home security systems are robust, convenient, and simple to use. To keep your home and family safe, get in touch with our team at Frase Protection today.