Power outage
Experiencing a power outage can be unsettling, but being prepared can significantly reduce the inconvenience and potential risks.
From ensuring you can safely navigate your home in the dark to keeping essential appliances off to prevent damage or hazards, here's how to maintain safety and comfort during a blackout.
Essential tools and backups
To navigate power outages effectively, equip your home with the following essentials :
Medical
Heating
Safety
Water
Food
Light / power
Large water containers : 2-4 for additional water storage.
portable water carriers : 2-4 for fetching water if needed.
Warm blankets : At least 4-8, considering layering for warmth.
Sleeping bags : 4 rated for the coldest expected temperatures.
Thermal clothing : Sets for each family member, including hats, gloves, and socks.
Portable indoor safe heater : 1 (if electric, ensure it's compatible with your generator; if gas, follow safety guidelines).
Insulation materials : Bubble wrap, foam boards, or heavy curtains for windows and doors.
First-aid kit : 1 comprehensive kit.
Prescription medications : At least a 7-day supply.
Over-the-counter medications : Pain relievers, fever reducers, cold and flu remedies.
Sanitation supplies : Hand sanitizer, wet wipes, garbage bags, and toilet paper.
Hygiene kits : Toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap, and feminine hygiene products.
Emergency contact list : Including family, friends, local emergency services, and utility companies.
Copies of important documents : Insurance policies, identification, and bank information in waterproof containers.
Cash : In small denominations, enough for a week of basic needs (ATMs may not be operational).
LED flashlights : At least one for each household member with extra batteries.
Rechargeable lanterns : 2-3 for shared spaces.
Battery-powered or hand-crank radio : 1 for emergency updates.
Portable power banks : For recharging phones and small devices (4-6, high capacity).
Solar chargers : Recharging batteries and power banks during prolonged outages (2).
Generators : 1 portable generator (if feasible), including fuel storage (safety regulations compliant).
Candles and matches : 20-30 candles with waterproof matches/lighters (use with caution).
Non-perishable foods :
Minimum 3-day supply, considering 2,000 calories per person per day.
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Canned goods : 24 cans (vegetables, fruits, beans, meat)
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Dry goods : 5kg of rice, 4kg of pasta, and various packets of instant noodles, oatmeal, etc.
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Snacks : Granola bars, dried fruits, nuts (enough for 12 snacks per person).
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Pet supplies : Food, water and care items for your pets.
Manual can opener : 1.
Camping stove or grill : 1 with extra fuel canisters or charcoal.
Cooking utensils : A spare set for outdoor cooking.
Bottled water : At least 48 litres (3 litres per person per day for at least 4 days).
Water purification tablets : 2 bottles or a portable water filter.
During a power outage
// Checking safety and switching things off
Safety first : Check if the outage is limited to your home. If it's a broader issue, report damaged power lines or equipment to the electricity company.
Turn off major appliances : Prevent damage or fire risks by turning off items like stoves, irons, and washers. Leave one light on to know when power returns.
// Food and water
Food preservation : Minimise opening refrigerators or freezers. If it is cold outside, use the outdoors to keep perishables cold.
Water usage : If the outage affects water pumps, use water sparingly. Avoid using toilets excessively to prevent overloading the sewage system.
Comfort, safety and staying connected
Though more difficult, being attentive to your wellbeing and ensuring your ability to access information is essential.
// After the outage
Inspect appliances : Check for damage before turning everything back on. Restart appliances one at a time.
Restock supplies : Replenish your emergency supplies, including batteries, water, and non-perishable food items.
// Maintaining comfort and safety
Keep warm : Use extra layers of clothing, close off unused rooms, and use fireplaces or portable heaters safely.
Cooking and eating : Prepare meals using safe outdoor methods. Ensure you have non-perishable food items that don't require cooking.
Hygiene : If water supply is affected, use hand sanitizer or wet wipes for cleanliness.
Sleeping arrangements : If cold, sleep in a centralised location to share body warmth or use a tent indoors for extra insulation.
// Try your best to stay informed
Local news and updates : Use a battery-powered radio to stay updated on the situation and any advisories from local authorities.
Community support : Connect with neighbours to share resources and information.
Power company notifications : Sign up for updates from your power provider for real-time information on outages and restoration efforts.
