Load Shedding can cause Health Dangers

Our load shedding crisis is not only annoying, but it can be downright dangerous to your health too. Here’s how to protect yourself when darkness falls…

Power outages and public health facilities

While businesses and households struggle to deal with rolling black outs, the risks it poses for hospital patients are far greater.

Electricity is essential for public health facilities so when the supply is unstable it could be fatal for patients undergoing emergency treatment, surgery and those in intensive care. Furthermore, organs, vaccines and medication that need to be refrigerated can also spoil or become ineffective.

Tip: keep a two-plate gas stove at hand to boil water to sterilise baby bottles.

How to prevent health issues during load shedding: Keep your first aid kit close by in case any accidents happen in the dark, especially if you have children or older people living with you.

Dangers to health equipment

For those who suffer from emphysema, make sure that portable respirators are always charged.

Asthmatics should also keep their nebulisers charged.

Anyone who uses oxygen, such as those suffering from chronic bronchitis, sleep apnoea and other restrictive lung diseases, should keep an extra oxygen tank so they can keep breathing easily.

Dangers in the dark that affect all of us

Switch off all electronics and appliances during power outages. At times when power is restored there is the potential for it to come back with a spike in the voltage. Any sparks resulting from this could lead to burns and cuts and it can also damage electronic devices like computers, televisions and DVD players.

Being in the dark also can also be a health hazard for the small children and the elderly, who could trip and fall, especially when climbing stairs. Injuries resulting from falls can be as simple as ankle sprains to very serious hip fractures, which are all very common injuries for the elderly.

Safe heating alternatives

If you have a fireplace, make sure you have plenty of wood and keep the matches nearby.

Gas heaters are great for heating. Make sure you are stocked up with gas and heat only one room where everyone can gather together.

Ensure all windows and doors are closed to keep the heat in.

Place extra blankets and duvets in an easy-to-reach cupboard.

Load shedding is a nuisance and has forced us to prepare to install backup power solutions and keep torches and candles close at hand. Being engulfed in darkness for hours also comes with a  lot of health risks – so be prepared.

Need backup power for your home or business? Order from Off Grid and we can provide you with all you need, from power banks to UPS.