What To Do in a Power Outage or Blackout?
Nowadays, everything runs on electricity. Therefore, a blackout or power loss may be quite unsettling. Every aspect of our lives is dependent on electricity, from our appliances to our communication gadgets. So, what to do in a power outage? Knowing how to stay safe and comfortable during these moments can make all the difference. In this blog, we'll go over some tips for a blackout to make sure you and your loved ones are safe and organised during a power outage.
What to Do if Power Goes Out?
Stay Calm and Assess the Situation
The first rule of any unexpected event is to remain calm. Panicking won't bring the lights back on, but it can make the situation worse.
When a power blackout happens, take a moment to assess the situation. Is the whole neighbourhood affected, or just your house? If the electrical problem is limited to your home, there can be a problem with your electrical system. We recommend that you call a local electrician in such situations. But if it affects your whole region, it's probably a grid-wide problem.
Check your surroundings for immediate threats, such as fallen power lines or electrical fires. If you see a downed power line, stay away and report it to local authorities right away.
Find a Reliable Source of Light
It is natural to grab for a light source when the lights go off. The safest choices are lamps that run on batteries and flashlights. Make sure your electrical emergency pack has enough batteries. Always have a flashlight close to hand in a convenient spot.
Candles are a classic choice, but they may catch fire, particularly if they are knocked over or left unattended. It should be used sparingly and kept away from combustible objects by placing them in sturdy holders.
Remember that candles may also increase the warmth in your house during hot weather. So, take solar-powered lighting or LED lanterns into consideration as alternatives.
Unplug Electronics and Appliances
When the electricity comes back on, power surges often occur and may seriously harm your equipment. Unplug delicate electronics like laptops, TVs, and big appliances to reduce this danger.
Be careful to turn off any power appliances, such as the stove or iron, if you're not using them when the power goes out. This prevents potential hazards when the power is restored, especially if you're not present when it happens. Additionally, keep one light on so you can tell when the power comes back on.
Conserve Your Food Supply
Keeping your food fresh during an electricity outage is one of the most important considerations. Food in your freezer and refrigerator can only be kept cold for a short period of time if there is no electricity. Generally speaking, you should try to keep the refrigerator door closed.
Food in an unopened refrigerator can stay cold for up to four hours. On the other hand, food in a fully loaded freezer can stay cold for up to 48 hours (or 24 hours if it's just halfway full).
Move perishable goods to a cooler filled with ice if you're experiencing a prolonged outage. Before eating any food that has been refrigerated, look for indications of deterioration and discard anything that seems questionable.
Stay Informed and Stay Safe
A blackout can leave you feeling disconnected, especially if your phone battery is running low. But staying informed during a power failure is crucial, especially if it’s related to severe weather or an ongoing emergency. A battery-operated or hand-crank radio is an excellent investment for such situations. This will allow you to remain up-to-date about local news, weather, and any statements made by authorities about attempts to restore electricity.
Consider Investing in a Backup Generator
While not a necessity for everyone, a backup generator may come in rather handy when there are prolonged power outages. While you wait for the main power system to be restored, a generator can keep your house warm and power your important appliances. Before purchasing a generator, consult with an electrician to determine the best type for your needs and ensure it is installed correctly. When using a generator, don't forget to follow all safety precautions and store fuel carefully.
Contact our Emergency Electricians in Melbourne Northern Suburbs
Even though power outages are a part of life, being ready may really make a difference. At Petrelli Electrical Services, we are your go-to solution to fix power outages or electrical issues that disrupt your home. Whether you're having a power blackout due to malfunctioning circuit breakers, overloaded power boards, or even natural conditions like storms or floods, our emergency electrician can assess the issue rapidly and effectively. We guarantee prompt and dependable repair during a blackout or power outage in the Northern Suburbs of Melbourne, resuming your electricity and assisting you in quickly returning to your regular schedule.