Power Outages: Precautions Before and During the Crisis
Electricity is an essential part of modern life, and its absence can turn the daily routine into a challenge. Power outages, which can occur for various reasons such as storms, technical failures or grid overload, require families to be prepared to face periods without power. In this article, we will discuss the precautions that should be taken before and during a power outage, through proper planning.
Why should you prepare?
A power outage is an interruption in the supply of electricity to a geographical area, and it can range from a few minutes to days (if all goes well), depending on the severity of the situation.
And the more severe it is, the more dangerous it can become.
Food and medicines can no longer be refrigerated, medical devices stop working, telephone, internet and even radio communications may go down… And finally, there is the insecurity that sets in due to the lack of lighting, which fuels an increase in crime.
Part 1: Preparation Before the Outage
Preparation for a power outage begins before it happens; otherwise you will be playing catch-up and putting yourself and others at risk.
1.1 Assessing the Situation
Since preparation is not the same for everyone, you should assess your particular situation and determine the following…
– Capacity to produce electricity (solar, wind or generator);
– Capacity to keep critical equipment running (haemodialysis machines, etc.);
– Capacity to keep food and/or medicines refrigerated;
– Capacity to maintain heating (if necessary);
– Capacity to communicate and/or obtain information;
– Capacity to cook and provide lighting.
1.2 General resources
Having an adequate stock can be the difference between comfort and discomfort during a power outage. Consider the following items:
- Non-perishable food: Rice, beans, various types of pasta, canned goods, nuts, grains and dried fruit.
- Water: Store at least 10 litres of water per day for each person in your home, for at least 5 days. This water has to be enough for cooking, drinking and also sanitation, so it requires efficient use.
- Medicines: Make sure you have an adequate stock of any necessary medication, as well as a first aid kit.
- List of telephone contacts: In case there are any landline telephone lines still working.
1.3 Light and Heating
When the electricity fails, it is essential to have alternative sources of lighting and heating. You should acquire the equipment in advance and ensure that it is accessible and operational for when it is needed.
- Flashlight and batteries: Opt for LED flashlights, which consume less energy, preferably USB-rechargeable or with rechargeable batteries;
- Candles and matches: Even if you have a small solar panel to charge your equipment, it is always good to have something non-technological, which in this case doubles as a source of heat.
- Gas heaters or portable heaters: In the event that you have to heat a space during an outage, it is recommended that families gather in a single space, thus maximising the heat source. It should be noted that a gas heater should always be accompanied by a CO2 alarm.
1.4 Alternative Energy Sources
Gas generators or solar power can be an excellent source of electricity during an outage. However, they come with their own safety considerations. Make sure to:
- Keep the generator outside the house: Exhaust fumes can be lethal.
- Install the generator correctly: Consult a professional to ensure a safe installation.
- Keep enough fuel: Store petrol or other fuels safely.
In the case of solar generators, since our group has a partnership with ECOFLOW Portugal, members can contact the team through our email and benefit from discounts and promotions exclusive to the group.
1.5 Equipment and Technology
Some devices can make life without electricity a little easier:
- Mobile chargers: Keep a portable charger or a power bank for electronic devices.
- Battery radio: A radio that runs on batteries can keep you informed about the situation during an outage.
1.6 Family Planning
It is essential to talk to your family about what to do in the event of a power outage. Draw up a plan that includes:
- Communication: How you will communicate, especially if the communications network is not working. Read our article on PMR446
- Meeting point: Where the family will gather if they are unable to communicate. Also read our article on Emergency Routes
- Division of responsibilities: Assign tasks, such as caring for children and pets, and ensure that everyone follows the plan.
Part 2: What to Do During a Power Outage
After preparing, it is important to know how to act during the outage.
2.1 Stay Calm
Staying calm is crucial. Sometimes outages are temporary, and at other times they can last longer. Panic will not help anyone. Take a deep breath and follow the preparation plan, checking step by step whether there are any gaps in it.
2.2 Disconnect from the grid.
To avoid damage to valuable electronic equipment, switch off the main electrical panel. When the power returns it may be unstable and come with voltage spikes. Do not worry, because when it is restored you will know, either from the street lights or from those who did not take these precautions.
Likewise, you should close the main water shut-off valve, because in addition to the water possibly returning at high pressure, given the amount of air that will have accumulated in the pipes and the lack of immediate use of the supply, it also prevents flooding from taps left open and forgotten.
2.3 Follow the Situation
Keep up to date on the situation of the outage; to do so you can use your battery radio or any other device with AM/FM capability (such as dual-band and tri-band radios).
- Check local news stations: For updates on the duration of the outage and any safety guidance.
- Follow the instructions of the local authorities: If a state of emergency is declared.
2.4 Efficient Use of Resources
During the outage, it is essential to be economical with resources:
- Ration water and food: Try to save as much as possible until power is restored.
- Limit the use of flashlights and light sources: Use them only when necessary and avoid attracting unnecessary attention.
2.5 Family Safety
Safety should be the number one priority:
- Be careful with open flames: If you use candles, never leave them unattended.
- Check on children and pets: Keep them safe and comfortable.
- Be careful when leaving the house: Darkness facilitates crime and increases the risk of accidents.
Part 3: Final Considerations
3.1 Post-Outage Assessment
Once power is restored, carry out an assessment of the situation:
- Check the food: Discard any food that is no longer safe to consume.
- Adjust the plan: Discuss with your family what worked and what can be improved for next time.
3.2 Continuous Education
Preparation for power outages should be an ongoing effort. Consider taking survival and emergency courses offered and taught either by our group, or by partners or external organisations. Keep yourself informed about best practices.
3.3 Community Resilience
Get involved in your local community and remember that the GNPA has district hubs represented by trusted people who can serve as a point of contact in case of need. Strengthening local networks can make a big difference in the effectiveness of the response in crisis situations.
Conclusion
Preparing, whether for a power outage or for any other event, is a fundamental task to ensure the safety and well-being of your family. From planning to executing the plan during the crisis, preparation can make the difference. Remember, acting with calm and composure is the key to facing any challenges that may arise.
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