It started with a distant rumble and flashes of lightning over the Blue Ridge Mountains. Within minutes, a violent summer storm was ripping through Asheville, NC, toppling trees in Montford, flooding roads in West Asheville and knocking out power in entire neighborhoods. You scramble for flashlights, cell service flickers out, and you’re left wondering how long the blackout will last and what damage might already be done to your home’s electrical system. For Asheville homeowners, this unsettling scenario is all too real. Knowing what to do when a neighborhood blackout occurs can help protect your safety, property and peace of mind.
Stay Calm and Prioritize Safety First
When the power goes out during one of Asheville’s intense summer storms, your first move should be to stay calm. Use flashlights instead of candles to reduce fire risks, and keep your refrigerator and freezer closed to preserve food. Check on elderly neighbors or anyone with medical devices, especially in hilly areas where access may be cut off. Avoid heading outside; downed trees and live wires are common hazards in this area.
Unplug Electronics and Appliances
To protect your home’s valuable devices from power surges, unplug TVs, computers, kitchen appliances and anything else sensitive to electrical spikes. Surges are common when power is restored after an outage, and a quick unplug could prevent expensive damage to electronics and HVAC systems in your Asheville, NC, home.
Call a Professional Electrical Repair Company
Once the storm clears and power returns, don’t assume everything’s OK because the lights came back on. Call a trusted electrical repair company to inspect your home. Power surges and storm-related faults can silently damage wiring, outlets and appliances, even if they appear to be functioning properly. A certified electrician can identify and fix problems before they become safety risks or lead to future outages.
Prepare an Emergency Kit for Future Blackouts
Build a blackout-ready emergency kit with flashlights, extra batteries, bottled water, non-perishable food, a first-aid kit and battery-powered chargers. Include a portable weather radio to stay informed about local conditions in Buncombe County. Store everything in an easy-to-reach spot and go over the kit with your family before the next summer storm rolls in.
Asheville’s weather can turn quickly, and power outages are often part of the deal. Prioritize safety, protect your home’s electronics, and call Gentry Service Group to inspect your electrical systems after an outage. A few smart steps today can help you weather the next blackout with confidence.
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