Is Your Home Ready for the Next Power Outage?

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Power outages can happen without much warning. A severe storm, strong winds, or an unexpected fault in the local network can leave you without electricity for hours. While most outages are short-lived, being prepared can make the experience far less stressful, especially if you live alone.

Start by keeping a few essentials in an easy-to-find place. A torch with fresh batteries is safer than relying on candles, and a portable battery pack can keep your mobile phone charged if the outage lasts longer than expected. It’s also worth having a battery-powered radio on hand so you can stay informed if mobile or internet services are disrupted.

Think about any medications or medical equipment that rely on electricity. If you use a device such as a CPAP machine or refrigerated medication, talk to your healthcare provider about what to do during an extended outage. Knowing your options in advance can provide valuable peace of mind.

Your freezer can also help you through a blackout. If you keep the door closed, frozen food will stay cold for much longer than many people realise. Avoid opening the fridge and freezer unnecessarily, as every peek lets cold air escape and shortens the time your food stays safe.

It’s a good idea to keep a small supply of bottled water and a few non-perishable foods in the pantry. Items such as canned soup, crackers, long-life milk, and tinned fish can be useful if cooking isn’t possible. Check these supplies every few months so nothing passes its use-by date.

Finally, make a habit of keeping important phone numbers written down as well as stored in your mobile. If your phone battery runs flat or you need to borrow someone else’s device, you’ll still be able to contact family, neighbours, or your electricity provider.