Experiencing a power outage can be frustrating and stressful, especially when you’re unprepared. Auckland, like many other areas in New Zealand, occasionally faces power blackouts due to weather events, technical faults, or maintenance work. Knowing how to handle these situations properly is crucial to ensuring your safety and minimizing inconvenience.
Here’s what you should – and shouldn’t – do during a power outage to keep your household safe and comfortable.
What to Do During a Power Outage
1. Stay Calm and Assess the Situation
The first thing you should do when the power goes out is to remain calm. Take a moment to assess whether the issue is limited to your home or affects your entire neighborhood. Check if your neighbors are also without power or if nearby streetlights are still on. If it’s just your house, the issue may be related to your circuit breaker or an internal electrical fault.
2. Switch Off Electrical Appliances
During a power outage, it’s important to switch off all major electrical appliances, such as heaters, refrigerators, and electronic devices. This prevents potential damage when the power is restored, as sudden surges can occur. Leaving appliances like your fridge and freezer closed will also help maintain the internal temperature and keep your food safe for longer.
3. Use Flashlights Instead of Candles
While candles are a common go-to during a power outage, they can be a fire hazard, especially in homes with children or pets. It’s better to have battery-powered flashlights or lanterns handy for safe, reliable lighting. Make sure you store extra batteries in an easily accessible place.
4. Stay Updated
Stay informed about the situation by using a battery-powered radio, mobile phone, or other communication devices. Follow updates from local Auckland electricity providers and emergency services to get a better idea of when the power might be restored. Be mindful of conserving your mobile phone’s battery by reducing screen brightness or using power-saving modes.
5. Use a Generator Safely (if available)
If you have a backup generator, now would be the time to use it. However, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Keep the generator outdoors, away from windows and doors, to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Never run a generator inside a garage or enclosed space.
What Not to Do During a Power Outage
1. Don’t Panic or Overload Emergency Services
While it’s important to stay aware of the situation, avoid overwhelming emergency services with non-urgent calls. Power companies in Auckland will likely already be aware of the power outage, and their website or local news will provide updates. Only call emergency services if there’s a true safety risk, like downed power lines or someone in immediate danger.
2. Don’t Use Barbecue Grills Indoors
It may be tempting to use your barbecue grill or gas stove indoors to heat food or warm your house during a power outage, but this can be extremely dangerous. Carbon monoxide from gas appliances and grills can accumulate indoors, leading to poisoning. Stick to safe cooking options like outdoor grills or portable stoves that are designed for emergency use.
3. Don’t Open the Fridge or Freezer Often
Keeping your fridge and freezer doors closed as much as possible during a power outage will help preserve the cold air inside. This can prevent your food from spoiling for up to four hours in the fridge and up to 48 hours in a full freezer. Only open the doors when absolutely necessary to retain as much cool air as possible.
4. Don’t Forget to Unplug Appliances
While it may seem harmless to leave your electronics plugged in, a power surge when electricity returns can damage them. Be sure to unplug computers, televisions, and other sensitive devices to prevent damage. When the power comes back, wait a few minutes before turning appliances back on to ensure the electrical system is stable.
Conclusion
A power outage doesn’t have to be overwhelming if you’re well-prepared. By following these simple steps, you can keep your family safe, protect your appliances, and stay informed. Remember to switch off electrical devices, rely on flashlights instead of candles, and avoid using potentially dangerous equipment indoors. With a bit of preparation and caution, you’ll be able to handle a blackout calmly and safely.
For Auckland homeowners, preparing for power outages is just one part of ensuring your home’s electrical system remains reliable. If you need assistance with electrical repairs or installations, Northern Lights is here to help.
Don’t waste time trying to fix the problem yourself, get in touch with us today.
