My kids often tease me for my obsession with keeping my phone’s battery as close to 100% as possible. I have it plugged in most of the day, even while I use it, and I start to feel anxious when the battery dips below 70%. While they tend to wait until their devices are at 0% to charge them, only to panic when they can’t load their favorite videos, perhaps my approach isn’t so crazy after all.
I think my battery-charging habits stem from a tendency to expect the unexpected. Having a fully charged phone gives me peace of mind, especially with the increasing frequency of natural disasters. I learned the hard way during Hurricane Sandy nine years ago when some family members were without power for weeks. In emergencies, having multiple ways to keep your phone charged is essential.
Recently, we faced Hurricane Ida, and I went through my routine of ensuring all devices were fully charged alongside backup chargers and flashlights. Ida’s impact reminded me that preparation is crucial, so I developed a new, comprehensive plan to extend my phone’s battery life during emergencies. Here’s what I recommend:
1. Invest in External Chargers
I’ve had an external charger since Hurricane Sandy, but I realized that one might not suffice for prolonged outages. I’m purchasing additional chargers to ensure they are always ready. Solar chargers could be an option, but they depend on sunlight, which isn’t guaranteed during disasters. Hand-crank chargers are also available, which require manual effort to generate power—they’re not ideal but can be useful in dire situations.
2. Utilize Your Laptop
If the power goes out, you can charge your phone using a USB port on your laptop. Ensure you have the right cables. While it’s tempting to preserve your laptop’s battery, keeping your phone charged is generally more critical in emergencies.
3. Charge Your Phone in the Car
During Hurricane Sandy, we charged our phones in our vehicle. Just make sure you have a car adapter if your vehicle doesn’t already include one. Despite concerns about draining your car battery, you can charge multiple devices without significantly impacting it, according to experts. Just be cautious about your gas level during a disaster.
4. Conserve Battery Life
There are several methods to extend your phone’s battery life. Activate “low battery mode” through your settings, close unnecessary apps, and lower your screen brightness. If you don’t expect urgent messages, switch to “airplane mode” to save power. Texting is more battery-efficient than making calls, and using Wi-Fi instead of cellular data can help conserve energy as well. It’s also wise to avoid excessive powering on and off your device, as this drains the battery.
5. Use Charging Stations
In many communities, disaster relief sites often set up charging stations. Libraries and cafes might also provide charging options. Consider packing a power strip in your emergency kit so you can charge multiple devices simultaneously when you find a suitable location.
While these tips focus on keeping your phone charged, remember that disaster preparedness includes having a packed emergency bag and a communication plan with loved ones. Consider choosing a messaging app or social media platform to stay connected in case traditional texting fails.
No one likes thinking about potential disasters, and yes, there’s a chance you might be over-prepared. But being cautious is better than regretting it later.
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Summary
Keeping your phone charged during a natural disaster is essential for communication and safety. Consider investing in several external chargers, using your laptop for charging, and conserving battery life through various settings. Utilize car chargers and seek out community charging stations when necessary. Preparing for emergencies involves more than just technology; it requires a comprehensive strategy that includes communication plans and emergency kits.
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