Power outages can happen at any time. Whether caused by severe weather, infrastructure issues, or unexpected emergencies, these interruptions can pose significant challenges to people’s home life, work, and overall well-being. In the case of Davao del Norte, frequent brownouts, as much as 5 times per day, can be downright devastating economically and physically. For them, it is crucial to be prepared for such situations.
Power up your safety, comfort, and resilience with these tips on how to survive frequent power loss.
Create a Home Emergency Kit
This kit acts as a lifeline during unexpected disruptions, providing necessary tools and supplies to manage any situation that may arise. Start by gathering a sturdy, waterproof container that can be easily stored and accessed, such as a plastic bin or a backpack.
Equip your kit with essential tools and items such as a flashlight with extra batteries, a multi-tool, and a whistle for signaling help. Consider adding a battery-powered or hand-crank radio to stay updated on emergency broadcasts.
Think about your family’s specific needs. If you have young children, stock up on baby formula and diapers. For pets, don’t forget their food and any required medications. It’s also vital to include a first-aid kit, complete with bandages, antiseptics, sanitation items such as soap, and any personal medications that might be needed during an outage.
To make your emergency kit truly comprehensive, include important documents like identification, insurance policies, and emergency contact numbers sealed in a waterproof bag.
Secure Your Food Supply
Start by organizing your ref and freezer. Arrange items in a way that allows you to easily assess what needs to be consumed first during an outage. A well-stocked freezer can keep food cold for up to 48 hours if left unopened, so keeping the door closed is crucial. Refrigerators should be able to keep food safe for 4 hours if door opening is kept to a minimum.
Consider investing in a thermometer specifically designed for your refrigerator and freezer; this will help you monitor temperatures and ensure food safety. Make sure your freezer is set at 0 degrees to ensure food stays frozen as long as possible.
If you live in an area known to have frequent brownouts, it’s a good idea to have ice available at all times. They help keep a freezer full, and full freezers stay cooler longer compared to a nearly empty one.Prepare non-perishable food such as canned goods, dried fruits, nuts, and grains. These items don’t require refrigeration and can last for extended periods, providing a reliable source of nutrition when outages occur. Make sure you have an LPG stove you can cook on.
Don’t forget about water, either. The recommended amount is a gallon per day for each family member. Water is essential not only for drinking but also for cooking.
Invest in Backup Power Sources
Generators are a robust solution for restoring power during extended brownouts. They are, however, expensive to invest in. It is also essential to consider the noise and emissions associated with traditional kerosene-run generators, which might not be ideal for all environments.
A more affordable option is a portable power station. Essentially just power banks with a larger capacity, these lithium-ion battery systems can be safely used inside the home. Heavy-duty units with larger batteries can power small refrigerators for a few hours, whereas smaller ones will suffice for the smaller power needs of laptops and small DC-powered electric fans. For those who would like to reduce their carbon footprint, there are power stations that come with solar charging panels.
Another solution would be Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) units. These provide immediate backup power, allowing sensitive electronic equipment such as computers, servers, and telecommunications devices to remain operational for a short time during an outage.
At the very least, invest in cheaper power banks that can charge mobile phones and small LED lamps.
Stay Connected
Staying informed about outages and keeping connected to family and friends is crucial to maintain productivity and safety during frequent interruptions. In an age where information flows rapidly, having the right tools and resources at your fingertips can make all the difference.
A mini-UPS unit can provide temporary power to modems and routers, but a backup battery unit (such as a power station or a power bank) is a better choice the keep these devices powered throughout a brownout. Just make sure you have the correct cable to connect each device to the battery source.
Create a list of essential contact numbers and ensure that everyone in the household has access to it—whether it’s saved on a mobile device, written down, or stored in a shared online document. It’s also wise to set up a group chat that can be utilized when service is available. This allows for quick updates, keeping everyone informed and reassured.
Follow your local power company’s social media pages and download their apps for real-time information on when power is expected to be restored and any ongoing issues that might be affecting service.
Minimize Risk
When faced with a power outage, the first thing to do is stay calm and avoid panicking. Make sure to turn off all electrical appliances and devices to prevent any damage once the power is restored. But a more proactive approach is to invest in surge protectors that are designed to absorb excess voltage, preventing it from reaching your devices and causing permanent damage.
Plan for Comfort
First and foremost, consider investing in battery-operated fans. These portable fans can help circulate air and maintain a reasonable temperature, especially during the sweltering summer months.
In colder areas, ensure you have blankets and warm layers accessible. Additionally, utilizing thermal curtains and weather stripping can help retain heat within your home.
Lighting can also play a crucial role in maintaining comfort. Invest in a collection of candles, LED lanterns, and flashlights to illuminate your space and create a calming ambiance. The flicker of candlelight not only brightens the room but also adds a touch of warmth and coziness during dark hours.
Lastly, don’t underestimate the power of good company. Gather your family or friends for a game night, storytelling, or simply to enjoy each other’s company. Engaging in conversation and shared activities can turn a potentially frustrating situation into a memorable bonding experience, elevating your spirits and keeping everyone comfortable despite the circumstances.
By implementing these simple strategies, you can ensure that your home remains a haven of comfort and safety, no matter how often power outages occur. Remember to always stay calm, have the necessary supplies on hand, and help those in need during an emergency. Stay prepared, stay safe.
