10 Tips for Coping with A Long-term Power Outage

6 Aug

Despite living in a technologically advanced and modern society, power outages are still common in certain parts of the world. And while a power outage may only last for a few hours in developed countries, in other parts of the world, it can last for days or even weeks. This is because developing countries often have less reliable and robust infrastructure, meaning that power outages are more common.

Although power outages can be frustrating, there are ways to cope with them. Here are 10 tips for coping with a long-term power outage:

  1. Keep a stock of food and water that doesn’t require refrigeration or cooking. This will ensure that you have something to eat and drink even if the power is out for an extended period. Some examples are canned goods, dry cereal, nuts, and water bottles. These can all be stored in a cool, dark place like a pantry or closet.
  2. Invest in a home backup battery bank. This will allow you to charge your devices (e.g., phone, laptop) even when the power is out. It’s especially useful if you work from home or need to stay connected for other reasons. You can find home backup battery banks online or at most electronics stores.
  3. Use candles or flashlights for lighting instead of electric lights. This will help conserve your home backup battery’s power. Just make sure to keep candles and matches in a safe place so that you don’t start a fire. Also, keep your children and pets away from candles to prevent accidents.
  4. If you have a fireplace, use it to stay warm. Just make sure to properly ventilate your home to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. You can also use blankets and layers of clothing to stay warm. The key is to dress in layers so that you can easily adjust your body temperature.
  5. Don’t open your fridge or freezer too often. Every time you open either one of these appliances, cold air escapes and causes the appliance to work harder (and use more energy) to stay cold. So, only open them when necessary and try to keep them closed as much as possible.
  6. Unplug any electronics that you’re not using. This will help prevent power surges when the power comes back on and also conserve your home backup battery’s power. This includes things like your TV, computer, and chargers for your devices. If you have a home backup battery, you can plug these devices into it so that they’re still available to use even when the power is out.
  7. If you have a gas stove, use it to cook food. Just be sure to follow all safety precautions when using a gas stove. This includes proper ventilation and not leaving the stove unattended while it’s on. You can also use a camp stove if you have one.
  8. Stay hydrated and drink plenty of fluids. This is especially important in hot weather to prevent dehydration. Drink water, juices, and other non-alcoholic beverages. And if you have infants or young children, be sure to give them plenty of fluids as well. You can find more tips on preventing dehydration here.
  9. Use the restroom before the power goes out. This is important because you may not have access to a flushable toilet if the power is out for an extended period. If you have small children, be sure to help them use the restroom as well. You can also use a camping toilet if necessary.
  10. Keep your mind occupied. If the power is out for an extended period, it can be easy to get bored. So, find ways to keep your mind occupied. This can include reading books, playing games, working on puzzles, or listening to music. For sure, there are plenty of ways to stay entertained even without power.

These are just some tips for coping with a long-term power outage. By following these tips, you can make the best of a bad situation and ensure that you and your family are safe and comfortable.

Have you ever experienced a long-term power outage? What tips would you add to this list? Let us know in the comments below!