Precautions for the electric power breakdown

Do you know how dependent you are on electric power? What happens if it fails? The telephone is dead, the heating doesn’t come on, there is no warm water, the computer goes on strike, the coffee machine stays off, there is no light.

You can extend the list as you want. You will soon notice how dependent you are on electric power. Electric power breakdowns are generally rectified in a few hours. However, in emergency situations, it may even be days before electric power is available again.

The heating fails

Anyone who has a fireplace or a stove should have a supply of coal, briquettes or wood in the house. Check whether it is possible to install an alternative heating source in your home. Let experts advise you on this. Caution! In the case of gas-powered heat sources, make sure that safety precautions such as an oxygen deficiency and ignition safety device are in place. The installation of a so-called CO alarm increases your safety.

Warm clothing can be used as a substitute for heating for a while. If possible, choose a room to stay in and keep the doors closed so that heat cannot escape. However, make sure to air the room regularly! Regular renewal of the oxygen content in your rooms is particularly important if you use candles as an alternative light source, for example.

A living room with a small fireplace with a fire burning. Source: © Lilli – stock.adobe.com
If the heater stays cold during a power breakdown, a fireplace is a good alternative heat source.

The lights are off

There are several options for alternative light sources when the power supply fails. Be prepared and keep different variants in stock:

  • Flashlight: battery-powered (with spare batteries), solar-powered, crank-type flashlight or LED lights - don't forget "spare bulbs" or have several devices on hand to replace defects
  • Candles and matches or lighters
  • Camping or outdoor lamps: battery-operated (with spare batteries), LED lights or kerosene lanterns (provide suitable fuel)

Whichever variant you choose: always observe the manufacturer's specifications when using it and always make sure that open flames are not left unattended. There is a risk of fire! If possible, use fireproof vessels, such as lanterns for candles, to reduce the risk of fire.

No cooking can be done in the kitchen

You can prepare smaller meals on a camping stove. If you have a garden or a balcony you can also use an outdoor barbecue or table-top grill, which is operated with charcoal or gas.

Caution! Do not grill food in the apartment or house – there is a risk of suffocation!

You now also have an advantage if you have thought of long-life foods that can be eaten cold when you stock up on groceries.

Stockpiling

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There are several emergency situations where stocking up on food and drink is helpful. But you can also benefit from a supply in everyday life!

Food and drink are set out on a table as an example of a supply.
Food and drink are set out on a table as an example of a supply.

More tips in the event of a power failure

  • Make sure that the batteries in computers, mobile telephones, telephones etc. are charged.
  • Solar-powered battery chargers or power banks may help.
  • Remember to have sufficient cash reserves in the house, as cash machines also no longer work during an electric power breakdown.
  • Have a battery-powered radio or clockwork radio ready.
  • In the event of a long-lasting power failure, follow the notifications from the authorities.