Wiktor Wise
A total electricity blackout, or power outage, is the complete loss of the electrical power network supply to an end user. Power outages can occur at any time and can be caused by faults at power stations, damage to electric transmission lines, substations or other parts of the distribution system, short circuits, cascading failure, or fuse or circuit breaker operation. They can also be used as a public safety measure, such as to prevent a gas leak from catching fire or to prevent wildfires around poorly maintained transmission lines. The Northeast Blackout of 2003, for example, was caused by overgrown trees touching high-voltage power lines, affecting around 55 million people in the US and Canada. To survive a total electricity blackout, it is important to be prepared with an emergency kit, a backup power source, and a plan for refrigerating medicines or using power-dependent medical devices.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cause of blackout | Faults at power stations, damage to electric transmission lines, substations or other parts of the distribution system, short circuits, cascading failure, fuse or circuit breaker operation, cyberattacks, solar storms, severe weather, etc. |
| Duration of blackout | From a few minutes to a few weeks |
| Impact of blackout | Disrupt communication, water and transportation services, close essential services such as retail businesses, grocery stores, gas stations, ATMs, banks, etc., cause food spoilage and water contamination, prevent the use of medical devices, create a sense of isolation and vulnerability |
| Preparation | Make an inventory of items that need electricity, plan for alternative power sources, have flashlights, determine if home phone will work, talk to medical providers about a power outage plan, install carbon monoxide detectors, stockpile non-perishable food and water, prepare an emergency kit, etc. |
| During a blackout | Keep freezers and refrigerators closed, use generators outdoors and away from windows, disconnect appliances and electronics, monitor food temperatures and throw out spoiled food, use alternate plans for refrigerating medicines, etc. |
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What You'll Learn
Stock up on non-perishable food and water
During a total electricity blackout, it is crucial to have a stockpile of non-perishable food and water to sustain yourself and your family. Here are some detailed instructions and tips to help you prepare:
Firstly, understand that a power outage can last from a few minutes to several days or even weeks, depending on the severity and cause of the blackout. Therefore, it is essential to have enough non-perishable food to last you through an extended period without access to fresh food supplies or the ability to cook meals that require electricity or gas. Aim for food with a long shelf life, such as canned goods, dried fruits and nuts, energy bars, and military-style MREs (Meals Ready-to-Eat). These foods will provide the necessary calories and nutrition to keep you energised and healthy during the blackout.
Secondly, ensure you have a sufficient supply of drinking water. Store bottled water or fill clean containers with tap water. During a blackout, water pumps may not function, and even if you have access to water, it may not be safe for drinking. Calculate how much water you and your family will need per day and store accordingly. Don't forget to include water for basic hygiene practices like brushing your teeth and washing your hands.
Thirdly, create an emergency food supply kit that is well-organised and easily accessible. Include lightweight, calorie-dense foods that are easy to prepare and do not require cooking. This kit should be portable so that you can grab it and go in case of an evacuation. Remember to pack utensils, can openers, and any other tools necessary for preparing and consuming the food. Additionally, if you have infants or family members with special dietary needs, ensure you have appropriate non-perishable food items for them as well.
Lastly, practice food safety during the blackout. Keep your refrigerator and freezer closed as much as possible to maintain the cold temperature and prevent food spoilage. A full freezer will keep its temperature for about 48 hours, while a refrigerator will only keep food cold for around four hours. Use coolers with ice if needed to extend the life of your perishable foods. Regularly monitor the temperature inside your refrigerator and freezer with a thermometer, and discard any food that has been exposed to temperatures of 40 degrees Fahrenheit or higher for two hours or more.
By following these instructions and stocking up on non-perishable food and water, you will be well-prepared to survive a total electricity blackout and ensure the comfort and safety of your family.
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Prepare an emergency kit with a radio, torches, batteries, and first aid
Preparing an emergency kit is crucial for surviving a total electricity blackout. Here are some detailed tips on how to prepare an emergency kit with a radio, torches, batteries, and first aid supplies:
Radio
A battery-powered or hand-crank radio is essential for your emergency kit. During a blackout, local news and emergency alerts are broadcast on dedicated radio channels. If you prefer, you can also access these alerts online by bookmarking official government sites that post emergency information for your area.
Torches
It is recommended to have torches (flashlights) as a safer alternative to candles, which pose fire hazards and carbon monoxide risks. Ensure you have enough torches for each member of your household. Keep them easily accessible and always store spare batteries nearby. Rechargeable torches should always be kept fully charged. If you don't have a torch, a smartphone with a built-in torch can also work, but only if it's fully charged.
Batteries
Stock up on various types of batteries to power your devices during a blackout. This includes batteries for torches, radios, and any other essential devices. Keep your personal alarm systems charged, and consider investing in portable power banks to keep your mobile devices charged.
First Aid
A comprehensive first aid kit is vital for your emergency supplies. Include essential medications and medical supplies, as well as any prescription medications, hearing aid batteries, glasses, or other specific medical needs. Consult your medical provider for guidance on managing power outages with regards to refrigerated medicines and power-dependent medical devices.
In addition to the above, other essential items for your emergency kit include non-perishable food, clean drinking water, personal hygiene products, matches, a whistle, a multi-purpose tool, local maps, and warm clothing.
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Keep generators and fuel outdoors and dry
During a total electricity blackout, generators and fuel must be kept outdoors and dry to ensure safety. Firstly, generators should always be operated outdoors, away from windows, doors, vents, and openings. This is because generators emit carbon monoxide, a colourless and odourless gas that can be deadly. By keeping the generator outdoors, you can avoid the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. It is recommended to maintain a distance of at least 20 to 25 feet between the generator and your home. Additionally, always use the generator in a well-ventilated outdoor area.
Secondly, it is crucial to keep the generator dry. Do not operate the generator in wet weather conditions, such as rain or snow. Protect the generator from moisture by placing it under a canopy-like structure, such as a tarpaulin held up on poles. This will shield the generator from rain or flooding. Always ensure your hands are dry before touching the generator to avoid the risk of electrical shock.
Furthermore, when refuelling the generator, allow it to cool down first. Never refuel a hot generator as spilled fuel on hot engine parts can easily ignite and cause a fire. Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully when refuelling and operating the generator. Additionally, store any fuel in a safe location, such as outside the home in a locked shed or protected area, and never near a fuel-burning appliance.
By following these guidelines of keeping generators and fuel outdoors and dry, you can safely use a generator during a total electricity blackout to power essential devices and maintain some normal activities. Remember to also have working carbon monoxide detectors installed on every level of your home to alert you to any potential dangers.
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Avoid gas stoves and ovens to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning
During a total electricity blackout, it is important to avoid using gas stoves and ovens to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. While older stoves may be usable, most modern gas stoves and ovens have an interlock feature that prevents gas from entering the appliance unless there is electricity. Therefore, if you have a modern stove, you will have to make do with the cooktop.
If your stove is one of the older models that can be used without electricity, it is important to take certain precautions. Firstly, always use a long wooden match to light the stove, as this will reduce the risk of accidentally burning yourself. Hold the lit match close to the flame ports around the burner and immediately switch the valve to a low setting.
It is also crucial to have working carbon monoxide detectors installed on every level of your home, especially if you are using any fuel-powered devices during a blackout. Carbon monoxide is a hazardous, odorless, and colorless gas that can be deadly. Generators, camp stoves, and charcoal grills should always be used outdoors and at least 20 feet away from windows, doors, and attached garages to prevent carbon monoxide from entering your home.
Additionally, be cautious of food spoilage during a prolonged blackout. A refrigerator will keep food cold for about four hours, while a full freezer will maintain its temperature for about 48 hours. Use coolers with ice if necessary and monitor temperatures with a thermometer. Throw out any food that has been exposed to temperatures of 40 degrees or higher, as this can indicate dangerous bacterial growth.
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Plan alternative ways to refrigerate medicines
During a total electricity blackout, medicines that require refrigeration are at risk of degradation due to exposure to increased temperatures, which can lead to a loss of activity and effectiveness. Here are some alternative ways to refrigerate medicines:
- Keep your refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible to maintain the cold temperature. A refrigerator will typically keep food safe for up to 4 hours during a power outage if unopened, while a full freezer will maintain its temperature for about 24-48 hours.
- Use ice packs: Store ice packs or frozen gel packs in your freezer ahead of time. If the power outage lasts longer than expected, transfer the ice packs to a cooler along with your medicines. This will help extend the cooling time.
- Dry ice or block ice: Purchase dry ice or block ice to keep your refrigerator or cooler cold during prolonged power outages. Fifty pounds of dry ice can keep an 18 cubic foot freezer cold for two days.
- Battery backup systems: Invest in a battery backup system to provide alternative power for your refrigerator or freezer during a blackout. These systems can be customized to meet your specific needs and ensure medicines are stored at the correct temperature.
- Insulated carriers or coolers: If you are without power for an extended period, consider storing your medicines in insulated carriers or coolers. Place ice packs or frozen gel packs inside to maintain a lower temperature.
- Contact the manufacturer: If your medication has undergone a "drug excursion" or "temperature excursion", where it has been exposed to temperatures outside the desired range, contact the manufacturer for guidance on the best course of action. They can advise on the viability and effectiveness of the medicine.
- Consult a pharmacist: Discuss medication storage options and alternatives with a pharmacist, especially for prolonged outages. They can provide guidance on maintaining a supply of refrigerated medicines and help determine the stability and safety of the drugs.
- Local health department: Reach out to your local health department for advice on the viability of your medicines after a power outage. Provide them with temperature readings to receive accurate guidance.
Remember, medicines like antibiotics, insulin, and vaccines are typically vulnerable during power outages, so maintaining proper storage conditions is crucial to ensure their effectiveness and viability.
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Frequently asked questions
It is important to be prepared for a total electricity blackout, as it can happen at any time. You should make an inventory of the items you need that rely on electricity and plan for alternative power sources. You should also have enough non-perishable food and water, flashlights, portable chargers, and a first aid kit.
During a blackout, you should keep freezers and refrigerators closed to maintain the temperature inside. You should also use a generator, but outdoors and away from windows to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. If you need to evacuate, you should have a "go bag" packed with essentials such as a phone charger, battery pack, and medication.
During a blackout, you can stay informed by listening to emergency radio channels, which will broadcast important safety information and news. You can also access emergency alerts online if you have cell service, as your WiFi will be down.
Blackouts can be caused by faults at power stations, damage to electric transmission lines, substations or other parts of the distribution system, short circuits, cascading failures, or fuse or circuit breaker operations. They can also be caused by natural events such as storms, cyberattacks, solar storms, and severe weather.
