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With unexpected power outages becoming a norm due to an unpredictable power grid, cable theft and other unplanned interruptions, blackouts are something you should know how to navigate. Relying on electricity for everyday life and going without power for long periods can disrupt plans and possibly lead to unexpected incidents. Read on to learn how to stay safe during emergencies when there’s a blackout.

Prepare An Emergency Blackout Kit

A well-stocked emergency kit can be your first line of defence when you need to handle a power outage safely, so if you haven’t considered back-up power sources such as flashlights, a power bank and battery-powered devices like a radio if you live in a remote area, investing in them would be ideal. Since you might not have an estimated time for power failure restorations, you should also consider having a sufficient supply of non-perishable food in case the fridge spoils other food over time.

In some instances, power outages can affect the water pumps and cause water shortages in your area. Having standby water stored in case of such emergencies can be a lifesaver and minimise the inconvenience you might experience when the water supply is also an issue during a blackout. Another important consideration is having cooking options such as a gas stove or a braai when you need to prepare meals and can’t rely on electricity.

Other things to consider when preparing an emergency blackout kit include:

• A well-equipped first aid kit.
• Cash on hand in case nearby ATMs are out of service.

Keep Your Home Ready

When it comes to power outages, you should do everything possible to prepare your home by minimising disruptions and protecting your belongings. For instance, installing surge protectors can help safeguard appliances and sensitive electronic equipment. When the electricity is restored, it can cause a damaging power surge, so unplugging appliances can also reduce the risk.

Additionally, investing in rechargeable lights, a generator, or solar LED lights can help with adequate lighting during a blackout. This can reduce the risk of accidents, especially when you live in an area where crime is volatile. Ensure you can charge your phone and have data so you can easily access the FREE-to-use iER App if faced with a life-threatening emergency during a power outage.

Stay Safe and Protect Your Loved Ones

Even though power outages are inconvenient, you should also be concerned about the increased safety risks, which require more effort to protect you and your loved ones. For example, you must understand that using open flames like candles can have devastating consequences and life-threatening fires. The same can be said if you use gas or a generator; you still need to be extra careful and ensure it’s placed in a well-ventilated area to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.

Most importantly, you may be faced with being vulnerable to criminal activities. You should exercise extra caution and be mindful of driving during a blackout. There has been an increase in spiking incidents that can make you a victim of violent crimes when you travel in darkness.

What to Do If You’re Stuck in an Extended Blackout

There have been instances where power outages caused by extreme weather conditions or load shedding have lasted for extended hours and even days without much information on when to expect restorations. This situation can be frustrating, especially when it compromises your safety. It’s important to stay calm and consider how to improve your well-being and safety until the power comes back.

Unfortunately, there are moments when it’s difficult to escape the effects of extended blackouts unless you live off-grid. This is why you should always stay prepared for the worst-case scenario when there are power interruptions in your area and ensure you have enough food and water supplies to last until the power is restored. Additionally, if anyone has a chronic medical condition, all your efforts should be invested in their well-being to ensure the power outage doesn’t further affect their health, especially if they rely on medical equipment.

While it’s become difficult to avoid experiencing power outages, they don’t have to be disasters. You can stay prepared for extended blackouts and manage the inconvenience without it becoming a crisis. You can equip your home, stock up an emergency kit, back-up power sources, and download the FREE-to-use iER App in case of any medical or non-medical emergencies.