When there's a power outage, one of the first worries is when it will be back.
Then comes the phone battery note and WiFi blackout, followed by that ominous silence, and then a generator in the distance.
Outages are mentally and emotionally disruptive too for some people. We rely so much on electricity in our daily lives that those small or even long breaks can be frustrating.
Here are some ways to get through a power outage easier.
Don't panic
When electricity goes off, focus on what you can do at that moment. Blaming the service provider or getting frustrated will not help your situation.
Check to see if your meter hasn't run out of units. Sometimes it is easy to assume that it's a general problem when it could be your yaka meter. Contact the service provider's customer care and find out what the issue is. Check their social media page to see if they have put out announcements or updates.
Once you have that knowledge, start managing the power resources you have.
Alternative power
Phones are a great way to stay connected and informed during a blackout. They also have handy functions like a flashlight. So you want to have your phone powered at all times. Keep your backup power devices always charged. Power banks and the like.
Manage your battery power by turning on the battery saver, closing unused apps, and putting the phone in airplane mode. Also, use your laptop to get extra charge for your phone or your car.
Take steps to stay cool
If it's hot outside and your cooling appliances are down, it gets stuffy indoors. Open your windows and doors to let fresh air circulate. Put on light clothes indoors. You may want to consider stepping out of the house for a walk.
It may be time to do those tasks you were postponing or go do some shopping.
Disposing of ice
Without power, the ice in the freezer melts and food defrosts making a mess. If you have a washing machine, it can be a temporary freezer. Pack it with the ice and items that need cooling. Not only will the ice stay cold longer, but the water will also be drained easily when the ice melts.
Use water to amplify light
You can use a jug of water to fill the room with light. Strap a safe light source like a torch or solar-powered lamp to a transparent container of water. The water amplifies light to create a sort of lantern to illuminate a room.
Avoid strapping flames or circuit-connected lights.
Use mirrors to amplify light
Mirrors don't reflect light 100 percent but they bounce it around to boost brightness. Place your light sources strategically to use available mirrors to your advantage.
Stay safe
Open flames like candles or crayons need to be used in the presence of an adult and placed strategically away from things that may cause a fire. Unplug all appliances and equipment in case of a surge that can damage property. Remember to turn off all switches.
In some areas, when there's a power outage mosquitoes flood the indoors. Make sure you are using repellent or get inside a mosquito net.
Takeaway
Power outages are a common occurrence, unfortunately. So it is important to have a plan whenever it occurs to minimise the inconveniences that come with it.