What to do during a power cut

Article Written By: Glenn Tucker

For most of us a power cut is a huge inconvenience that disrupts our daily routine. We are unable to use the internet for work purposes, unable to watch our favourite television programmes, and even unable to boil the kettle to make a cup of tea. Sometimes, the situation can be more serious depending on the resident's health, their circumstances and the weather.

Many things that we take advantage of in our everyday lives such as central heating, hobs on a cooker, telephones and general electricity could potentially be wiped out. It is important to always have a procedure ready in case you experience a power cut that could have dangerous side effects.

First of all, if you experience a power cut it is essential that you turn off all electrical appliances and leave one light switch on so you know when the power cut is over, the light will turn on. During a power cut, you run the risk of power surges, which can be very dangerous if you leave electrical appliances on. If the power cut happens during winter, wrap up warm, and try to keep one room warm and stay in it. Check to make sure your neighbours are safe, especially if they are old or vulnerable. Contact your local electricity supplier to see if it is an individual household problem or how much of the area around you is experiencing the same thing.

Keep a battery powered, or purchase a wind up radio to listen for updates. It makes sense to have a torch at hand when needed, or candles. If power cuts happen regularly in your area, it might be a good idea to install emergency lighting that turns on when your main electricity does not work. Ensure that you have some food that doesn't need a microwave or cooker to prepare and eat from.

It's a good idea to think about entertainment, especially if you have children. Without a plug in radio, television, lights or computers your children could be become extremely bored during the power cut. Think about playing board games and other family games, these simple enjoyments will distract your children during a power cut.

There are many alternative energy sources such as wind turbines and solar panels that will provide some energy during a power cut. But, you should always have an emergency safety kit ready in case somebody injuries themselves. Also, think about a communication source. Your cordless telephone won't work but mobile phones and corded telephones will work during a power cut. After creating your emergency kit, make sure that everything contained in it is well maintained. A good way of doing this is marking your calendar every so often telling you to check and update your emergency kit.

Lastly, the most important piece of advice is to keep your emergency and safety kit at easy reach and make sure it is easy to find for all your family members. Remember, you need to be able to find it during a power cut when there will be no light and it will be very dark. Keeping it in the same place will be best so anyone can locate it quickly and without difficulty.

About the Author

Glenn Tucker - Neweys offers a range of products from cable management to downlighters. For more information visit http://www.neweysonline.co.uk

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