A simple starting point for coping with a power cut at home.
Most power cuts are simply inconvenient. But even a few hours without electricity can quickly show you how much of everyday life depends on it.
Lighting, heating, cooking, internet access and charging your phone can all be affected.
You don’t need an expensive backup power system to be better prepared. Start with the things that will make an ordinary power cut safer and more comfortable.
Start with light. Keep your phone charged. Know what works without electricity.
1. Make sure you can see
Keep at least one battery-powered torch somewhere easy to find — preferably somewhere you can reach in the dark.
A small battery lantern can also be useful for lighting a room without needing to hold a torch.
Keep spare batteries with them and check occasionally that everything still works.
2. Have a way to charge your phone
A charged power bank can keep your phone working during a power cut, giving you access to information and a way to contact people.
The important bit is remembering to keep the power bank charged.
You don’t need an enormous power station to get started. A basic power bank capable of charging your phone is already useful.
3. Think about what stops working
Have a quick look around your home and ask:
What relies on electricity?
Your cooker or hob may be electric. Your boiler may need electricity even if it uses gas. Wi-Fi will usually stop when your router loses power.
Thinking about this now helps you spot the gaps in your household plan before a power cut happens.
4. Keep warm safely
If your heating stops during a winter power cut, start by keeping the warmth you already have.
Close curtains, shut doors to unused rooms, add layers of clothing and blankets, and concentrate on keeping one occupied area comfortable.
Never use outdoor cooking or heating equipment such as a barbecue inside your home because of the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
5. Know where to get information
In Great Britain, 105 is the free power-cut number. You can call 105 to report or get information about a power cut and be connected to your local electricity network operator.
Your next Quietly Prepared challenge
Find your torch.
Seriously. That’s today’s job.
Check that it works and that you have batteries for it.
Then:
Charge your power bank.
Save 105 in your phone.
Think of one meal you could make without your usual cooker.
You now have the beginnings of a power-cut plan.
USEFUL LINKS:
UK Government — Prepare: Power cuts