10 helpful tricks and tips to use when the power goes out

Power outages are more than just sitting in the dark. The fridge stops running, everything starts to defrost, plus the AC and fans stop working. Out come the torches and you have to wait patiently for the power to return. When the power goes out at your home, make sure to remember these helpful tips and tricks…

  v  When the power does fail somehow and the lights go out, leaving you in pitch darkness, don’t jump up immediately to find your flashlight and candles. Take a minute or two to let your eyes adjust to the darkness. You will be surprised how much better you can see and you won’t be as likely to walk into a table, chair or door.

  v  Keep some board games like chess, dominos, puzzles or UNO handy to keep yourself busy. Think of ways in which people amused themselves before the invention of electricity.

 

  v  Make sure you have at least one charged cell phone in the house. Keep a car charger handy in case the battery runs low.

  v  If your computer is connected to a UPS device, save everything and shutdown your computer as soon as you can. Take a look at Off Grid’s website for a wide range of UPS devices and other products that supply back up power.

  v  Take out your book from the dusty corner or buy a few books beforehand. It will kill some time and keep you entertained without needing any electricity.

  v  Put lumo stickers on your flashlights and keep them in easy to see places, like the bookshelf, next to the TV, on the nightstand, etc. When the power goes out, your flashlight will be quick and easy to find!

 

  v  Candles, if used improperly, can cause fire. Make sure you light your candles away from anything flammable and in an area where they can’t be knocked over. If you can, just try use flashlights instead of candles.

  v  Never use a generator in your home, garage or other enclosed environment!

Write these helpful tricks and tips down and keep them close at hand, so next time the power goes out you are fully prepared.

For a wide range of backup power devices, ranging from power banks to UPS systems - Visit Off Grid's website today!

How to stay safe during a power outage, experts explain

Severe storms and power outages unfortunately do happen and they can devastate homes, properties and lives. How long it takes for your power to become restored depends on the amount of damage, number of outages and when it is safe for utility personnel to get to the damaged areas.

There are many steps in the assessment and restoration process, so always be sure to contact and report the outage immediately.

We want you to know how to put together a storm safety kit, here are the following things you should include in your kit:

- Drinking water
- Non-perishable foods
- Blankets, pillows and warm clothing
- Basic first aid supplies
- Any prescription medication
- Basic toiletries
- Flashlight
- Battery operated radio and clock
- Extra supply of batteries
- Cellphone
- Cash and credit cards
- all emergency numbers
- Important documents in a sealed container
- Toys, books and games
- Baby supplies (if needed)
- Pet supplies (if needed)

Always have a storm kit prepared. Keep it in a cool, dry, safe place and make sure all the members of the family know where it is. 

Make sure you are prepared if you are ever caught in the dark, take a look at Off Grid's load shedding solutions. From power banks to UPS and KVA systems - we have it all!

Stuck in the dark: Health dangers when the power goes out

No matter what caused the power outage, whether it be bad weather or a random power cut, living without power creates real and dangerous health risks that you may not be prepared for.

Exposure: Extreme temperatures, whether hot or cold, can take a toll on anyone. Those that are most at risk are young children, seniors and anyone who is already sick. In severe cases, exposure to extreme heat or cold can lead to serious health problems that may require hospitalization.

Food poisoning: Lack of refrigeration can quickly lead to food spoiling. Eating foods that have not been stored at proper temperatures can also cause food poisoning from salmonella and other bacteria.

Water hazards: One of the biggest dangers during a long power outage is contaminated water. Water treatment plants need power to run, and while they usually have backup generators, these may go out as well. Because of this, you could be exposed to toxins and illnesses.

Injury: During a power cut, you may have to do things you wouldn’t normally do, like operate a generator. If you get injured during a power cut it is more dangerous than usual because the medical system is already stretched thin.

Supply interruptions: You normally rely on regular trips to the grocery store for the supplies you need to maintain your health and hygiene. Power outages can lead to serious supply disruptions that could compromise any one of these areas.

Storms are only one of the causes of a power cut, load shedding could hit again when we are least expecting it. 

Make sure you are always prepared for the worst – invest in one of Off Grid’s load shedding solutions. Whether it be a power bank to charge your cellphone or a UPS system for your computer, Off Grid has the backup power devices that you need.