How Prepared Are You In Case Of A Blackout?
Below are some insights about blackout preparations and what you can do to suffer the least inconvenience.
30/05/2019
Power blackouts may be unpopular in various cities, but when they do happen, everything else comes to a standstill. This is because most modern gadgets, tools and household appliances are powered by electricity from the national grid. Unfortunately, the power grid is aging and we are beginning to witness more power outages. Nonetheless, there are various things you can do to survive a blackout. In addition to using alternative power sources, you can plan for a blackout to ensure all the crucial aspects are covered when the city suddenly goes dark. Below are some insights about blackout preparations and what you can do to suffer the least inconvenience.
a) Buy and fill up your generator
Generators are the perfect replacement for national power grid as they can produce enough electricity to power most devices/gadgets and household appliances. You can even find dual fuel generators that operate on more than one type of fuel. These models can use gasoline or propane interchangeably. If you do not own one, you should consider buying a fuel powered generator and fill up the tank in readiness for a blackout. You can also keep filled gas/fuel bags just in case the blackout lasts more than 3 days.
b) Fill up your grill tank
Your refrigerator and freezer will soon warm up once the power is gone. When this happens, the nearest solution to preserving your meats is through heat. Grilled beef, pork, turkey and chicken can last a few more days so it is recommended to fill up your propane grill tanks and read a few tips on meal preservation through grilling.
c) Store water in buckets and bottles
Blackouts directly impact the water supply system and your town will probably experience water shortages soon after the lights go out. To avoid waiting in long queues to purchase water, simply fill up your buckets and styrofoam tanks. Keep drinking water in clean bottles and store them in the fridge. You can also seal and fill your bathtub.
d) Conserve fuel and batteries with flashlights
The cost of running a generator and batteries can quickly become expensive especially if you are using them for all your heating and lighting needs. To conserve your fuel and batteries, invest in LED flashlights and lanterns. They do not only consume less energy than incandescent bulbs, but also last longer and produce more light.
e) Fill your car’s tanks
Cars can provide warmth, light and electricity for light gadgets like phones and laptops. You can also buy a power inverter to convert the DC in to AC and use your car to power various appliances in your home. What’s more, you might need an emergency vehicle and public transport will probably be out of service when they can’t get gas or if there is no electricity.
f) Use ice freezer bags
Freezer bags can be used to keep the fridge cold for a day or two. Simply fill them up with clean drinking water, throw them inside a freezer and let them turn to ice. When there is a blackout, place the bags inside your fridge, cooler or even freezer. They will slowly thaw back to drinking water after preserving your food for as long as it can.
There are several other things you can do to be ready for a blackout. It mainly entails using alternative power sources such as batteries. You can also invest in solar panels especially if your area enjoys lengthy hours of sunshine. Solar power is just as great as the national grid and it can be used to power every appliance in your home. The crucial areas include food preservation, lighting, warmth/heating and clean water. Once these basic aspects are covered, the rest won’t be so hard to figure out.