It’s something that we never thought we would have to consider in our lifetimes; it has been decades since we were last facing rolling power cuts and blackouts.
However, with the energy costs soaring beyond what we may be able to manage this winter, it has become a very real possibility that the lights will go out.
As a digital generation, we rely on electricity a huge amount; our entire lives are in devices such as our phones and laptops.
So, how can we cope if it comes down to it, and what do we need to consider? In the modern age, it will take more than a few candles and a pack of cards to pass away the time.
How will we keep up with news updates? What is the best way to keep essential devices charged? How do we look after the most vulnerable? How can we keep warm? And what about our beloved pets?
Here, we round-up the most important factors, while a number of experts share their ideas on what we should be doing.
Vulnerable people
Most chair-lifts have a battery back-up. Check with the manufacturer for details. If you have elderly or vulnerable neighbours, make sure they are comfortable and don’t need help.
Stay tuned
The TV will be out of action, so keep a battery-powered or wind-up radio for any important updates and list your key contacts on paper in case your mobile phone battery goes down.
In emergencies
Call 105 – it’s free of charge and will put you through to your local network operator for help and advice.
Register for priority services
If you, a loved one or neighbour rely on electrical medical equipment such as a ventilator or dialysis machine or need extra support during a power cut, find out more about the free priority services register at ofgem.gov.uk.
Keep warm
Heat can drop quickly during a power cut, so make sure you dress warmly and try to stay active to help circulation. Boil some water in advance and keep it in a Thermos flask. You can use it to make hot drinks or fill a hot water bottle if it gets too cold. Keep extra blankets close to hand and close internal doors to keep heat in. Stock up with food and drink that doesn’t require electricity to get it ready.
Pet care
Fish and reptiles should manage for a couple of hours without power. Afterwards, you may need to unplug your filters to stop harmful toxins entering the water. Swirling the water can also help in the meantime.
Let there be light: Architect Jane O’Connor
A blackout is a great time to create some magic in your home, says Jane. ‘Lots of candles grouped in the hearth will provide a beautiful atmospheric light as well as heat, are out of the way and you can also toast marshmallows on them.
‘A candle in front of a mirror gives you two for the price of one so will double the amount of light. If you have pets or young children, and candles are too much of a fire hazard, use battery-operated fairy lights in jars for some magical ambience. Glo sticks are also great if you have any left over from a festival. And head torches are practical for tasks as they leave your hands free – also good for trips to the bathroom in the dark!
‘Style-wise, there are some fabulous wireless rechargeable lamps currently on the market (such as the Flos Bellhop) which you can move from room to room or take out into the garden.’
jackonsonoconnor.com
Lights and Appliances
Leave a main light on in your home so you know when the electricity has returned, but switch off all other electrical appliances, and unplug those which should not be left unattended, such as irons.
Charge mobile devices
Ensure your mobile is charged. Mobile phones and tablets can run out of battery quickly, so limit use for emergencies. If you have a vehicle, you may be able to charge your device while power is restored. Have a torch with fresh batteries close by rather than using the torch on your phone.
Food worries
Keeping fridge-freezer doors closed protects your contents and you should only open this if you need to. This means that chilled and frozen food should last for several hours. Refer to your manufacturer’s guidelines for more information.
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