Power outages happen from time to time in Brisbane, especially during extreme weather conditions or due to technical issues.
While it’s always frustrating to suddenly lose electricity, it is important to have a plan in place to ensure your safety and comfort during a power outage. This blog post discusses what to do in a power outage and provides tips to help you prepare for such situations.
1. Stay Calm and Safe
The first and most important thing to do during a power outage is to remain calm. Panicking will only worsen the situation and may even lead to accidents. Take a deep breath and gather your thoughts. Then, ensure your safety and that of your loved ones.
If a power outage has occurred due to a storm or severe weather conditions, it is advisable to stay inside and away from windows. In case of a technical issue, make sure to turn off any appliances that were in use before the power went out to avoid any potential hazards when the electricity comes back on.
Read more: How to Recognise the Signs of an Electrical Hazard
2. Determine the Cause of the Outage
If possible, try to find out the cause of the power outage. You can check your utility company’s website or social media pages for any updates on the situation. You can also contact them to report the outage and get an estimated time of when the power will be restored.
You can also check for local power issues in your area by visiting the Energex website and putting in your postcode. Their site gets updated every 15 mins, so you will be kept up to date with local power outages in your area.
If the issue is just in your house, check if the circuit breaker has tripped or if there is a blown fuse. If you are not familiar with these components, it is best to wait for an emergency electrician to come and assess the situation.
Read more: Common Types of Electrical Emergencies and How To Be Prepared For Them
3. Use Alternate Light Sources
During a power outage, you won’t have access to traditional lighting sources. It is always a good idea to have alternative light sources like flashlights, candles, battery-powered lanterns or even the light on your mobile phone on hand. These can help you navigate your way around the house and ensure safety during the outage.
Remember to always use candles with caution and never leave them unattended. If you have children or pets, keep them away from open flames to avoid any accidents.
4. Keep Your Phone Charged
In today’s digital age, we heavily rely on our phones for communication, information, and entertainment. It is essential to keep your phone charged, especially during a power outage when communication may be limited. It’s also advisable to keep a charged power bank on hand in case the outage lasts for an extended period.
5. Conserve Energy
During a power outage, it is crucial to conserve energy to make it last longer. Turn off all unnecessary appliances and keep the refrigerator and freezer door closed as much as possible. If you have a generator, use it sparingly and only for essential appliances.
6. Plan Ahead
The best way to deal with a power outage is to plan ahead and be prepared. Prepare an emergency kit with essentials such as non-perishable food, water, batteries and a first aid kit. It is also a good idea to have a backup plan in case of a prolonged outage, such as staying with family or friends who have electricity or booking a hotel room.
Read more: Tips for Preventing Power Outages
A power outage can be a hassle, but it doesn’t have to be a crisis. At Just-In Time Electrical, we understand the importance of having electricity and the inconvenience of a power outage. We offer 24/7 emergency electrical services to ensure the safety and comfort of our clients during any electrical issues. So, the next time you find yourself in a power outage, remember these tips and contact us for any electrical emergency.
Related posts:
- Benefits of Investing in Quality Electrical Products
- Common Mistakes to Avoid When Working with Electrical Wiring
- How Emergency Electrical Services Can Help You Save Money
Just-In Time Electrical is your local leading electrical contractor based in Brisbane’s western suburbs. Just-In Time Electrical has been operating for over 12 years and draws on a combined knowledge base of over 30 years.