Did you know that in 2021 a heat wave caused a blackout that later led to the death of hundreds in the Pacific Northwest?
Did you also know that a winter storm attacked Texas leading to a power blackout that led to 700 deaths?
Yes, a blackout may not seem that serious of an issue. However, the above statistics show that you should be cautious if a blackout occurs.
We have an individual who decided to watch a basketball match in an arena. In the middle of the game, a power blackout happened. He stayed calm, but some fans tried to leave the arena swiftly.
Most of them injured themselves while leaving the arena since they did it hurriedly with fear. He chose to wait for the commission to end, and after 20 minutes, power resumed.
Like our friend, you should learn the benefits of staying calm during a blackout. Some of these benefits are:-
- You will be in a position to think clearly.
- You will reassure others that things will be alright.
- You reduce the risks of accidents.
- You can communicate with others effectively.
- You can reduce stress.
- You will improve your concentration ability.
As you plan to figure out what to do to stay safe during a blackout, it is crucial to understand what a brownout also. You might, like many others, keep on confusing the two.
So, follow through to understand the difference between the two.
What is the difference between a blackout and a brownout?
- Blackout
A blackout is a complete loss of electricity in a specific area, resulting in a complete absence of light and electrical functionality. During a blackout, the power supply abruptly stops, leaving individuals and communities without any source of electrical energy.
During a blackout:
- All lights go out: No artificial lighting is available, leading to complete darkness.
- Zero electrical functionality: Appliances, electronic devices, and machinery cease to operate as they rely on electricity for power.
- Disruptions in essential services: Critical infrastructure such as hospitals, transportation systems, and communication networks may be affected.
Emergency preparedness becomes crucial during blackouts as you rely on alternative light sources like candles or flashlights.
However, you should know what to do to stay safe during a blackout and avoid accidents.
- Brownout
Brownouts occur when there is more demand for electricity than the power grid can handle. During a brownout situation, some electricity still flows through the system but at lower-than-usual voltage levels.
Mostly, this is due to increased consumption during peak hours or shortage situations.
As a result, utility companies intentionally reduce the voltage level supplied to stabilize the distribution network and prevent its overload.
Critical characteristics of brownouts include:
- Diminished voltage: The energy supplied is insufficient for optimal operation of appliances and devices connected to the grid.
- Performance impact: Brownouts often lead to decreased performance or slower operation of electrical equipment.
- Potential equipment damage: Over time, frequent and prolonged exposure to brownouts can induce stress on electrical devices, reducing their lifespan or causing premature failure.
It is important to note that brownouts are usually temporary measures utility companies take to avoid strain on the power grid and maintain a balance between electricity demand and supply.
What causes blackouts?
Before you know what to do to stay safe during a blackout, it is essential to understand what causes blackouts. Here are some of the causes of a blackout:-
- Equipment Failure
One common cause of blackouts is equipment failure within the power grid infrastructure. This can occur due to aging or faulty components such as transformers, circuit breakers, or transmission lines.
When critical components fail, they can disrupt the flow of electricity, leading to a widespread loss of power.
- Severe Weather Conditions
Blackouts often result from severe weather events like storms, hurricanes, or tornados. High winds and heavy rain can also damage power lines and other electrical infrastructure, causing them to fail.
In such cases, utility companies may shut down portions of the grid as a precautionary measure to ensure public safety.
- Natural Disasters
During severe weather conditions like storms or high winds, trees may be uprooted, or branches may break off and fall onto power lines. This poses a significant risk of causing blackouts as the weight of trunks can disrupt transmission lines or distribution systems.
Vegetation management programs can help reduce this particular risk factor by proactively removing or trimming trees that pose a threat.
Also, earthquakes, wildfires, floods, or other natural disasters can trigger blackouts.
In this case, utility companies may need to cut off power in affected areas for safety until they do repairs.
- Overloading/Demand Surges
During periods when electricity demand exceeds the capacity of the power grid, overloading occurs and can lead to blackouts. This typically happens in densely populated areas during extreme weather conditions (e.g., hot summer days) when air conditioning spikes simultaneously across homes and businesses.
- Cyberattacks/Security Breaches
In this age of digital dependence, cyberattacks targeting power grids have risen as a potential cause for concern.
Malicious individuals or groups may intentionally attempt to breach security systems and disrupt essential utility operations.
- Power Line Damage from Construction Work
Construction activities can inadvertently lead to power line damage, resulting in blackouts. Excavations or digging in areas without accurate information about underground utilities can accidentally cut electrical cables.
Moreover, heavy machinery or equipment mishandling can cause physical damage to overhead power lines. Construction companies and workers must follow strict safety protocols.
They can conduct thorough site surveys and collaborate closely with utility companies during projects to protect power infrastructure.
- Wildlife Seeking a New Home
Wildlife encounters with power equipment can also trigger blackouts. Animals like birds, squirrels, or raccoons are known to climb on electrical structures or come into contact with wires and equipment. Their presence near transformers often results in electrocution that interrupts the flow of electricity.
Utility companies employ measures such as installing animal guards on electrical equipment. They also increase vegetation management efforts near substations to minimize wildlife-related outages.
- Vehicle Accidents near Power Lines
Motor vehicle accidents involving collisions with power infrastructure are common causes of blackouts. These incidents typically happen when drivers lose control of their vehicles or when accidents occur near roadways with adjacent power lines.
The impact of a vehicle hitting power poles can result in snapped lines, damaged equipment, or even pole collapse.
Regulatory bodies and utility companies should emphasize safe driving practices. They can also implement measures such as installing protective barriers around critical infrastructure to minimize the risk of vehicle-related blackouts.
- Scheduled Blackouts
Scheduled blackouts are deliberate measures utility companies take to prevent or manage more severe disruptions to the electrical grid.
Planned blackouts are essential and help maintain overall system stability in certain situations.
One common scenario where utility companies implement planned power outages is during electrical infrastructure maintenance. Utility companies must regularly inspect, upgrade, and repair their equipment to ensure proper functioning and prevent potential hazards.
Another situation where planned blackout strategies come into play is during periods of high demand that exceed available supply capacity. Some of these situations are extreme heat waves that strain the power grid due to increased air conditioning usage.
Utility operators may implement rolling blackouts to balance supply and demand.
Most of these blackout causes can be prevented. Some of these measures include regular equipment maintenance schedules and updating aging infrastructure with modern technology.
Also, implementing effective grid management strategies and enhancing cybersecurity can assist in preventing blackouts.
The most crucial part is that you should know what to do to stay safe during a blackout. You cannot change other things, but your safety is your responsibility.
What to do to stay safe during a blackout or brownout: Tips for keeping your family, home, and appliances safe
Indeed, these are some tips on what to do to stay safe during a blackout or a brownout. These tips will help you ensure the safety of your family, home, and appliances:
- Prioritize Personal Safety
You should consider personal safety when wondering what to do to stay safe during a blackout or brownout. Keeping a sense of composure will help everyone stay focused on staying safe.
It is also advisable to have flashlights or battery-powered lanterns readily available for lighting. However, you should avoid using candles since they can pose fire hazards.
Additionally, you should have an emergency kit with essential supplies. These supplies include batteries, first aid materials, non-perishable food items, and bottled water.
- Prevent Electrical Hazards
Electrical hazards are prevalent when blackouts or brownouts occur. This issue can prompt you to discover what to do to stay safe during a blackout or brownout, fearing the effects of electrical hazards.
You can unplug sensitive electronic devices and appliances when the power is restored.
Doing so will help prevent potential accidents or damage after a blackout or brownout.
Additionally, this will help you avoid the effects of electrical surges when the power returns suddenly.
Also, you should consider investing in surge protectors for critical electronics. These protectors must remain plugged in for extended periods to help minimize the damage voltage fluctuations can cause.
- Food Safety
Food safety is an issue that you should highly consider when considering what to do to stay safe during a blackout or brownout. During blackouts or brownouts, preserve perishable food items to minimize spoilage. You can maintain cool temperatures inside your refrigerator and freezer for as long as possible.
Also, try to keep your doors closed as much as possible. Opening them will allow warm air to enter and shorten the storage time for perishable foods.
You can temporarily transfer essential perishable foods to coolers packed with ice packs until power is restored.
- Ensure Home Security
Burglaries may become more prevalent during blackouts when alarms and surveillance systems become inactive. This issue can prompt you to know what to do to stay safe during a blackout.
It would help if you countered this by taking precautions regarding home security in such situations.
You can consider installing backup power systems like generators or battery-powered security cameras to maintain home security even without electricity. Exterior motion sensor lights with batteries or solar panels can help deter potential intruders.
Buy On AmazonIn the event of a blackout or brownout, lock doors and windows securely and reinforce them if necessary.
Community involvement can also be helpful – communicate with neighbors about suspicious activities or organize neighborhood watches during power outages. You can also learn other security techniques from these communities on what to do to stay safe during a blackout that prolongs.
- Plan for Medical Needs
If anyone in your household relies on medical equipment powered by electricity, it is crucial to have an emergency plan in place.
This involves identifying backup power sources such as batteries or generators. You can also make alternative arrangements, like taking them to a medical facility with backup generators.
- Stay Informed
During a blackout or brownout, it’s crucial to stay informed about the progress of power restoration efforts from utility companies.
Use battery-powered devices like radios or smartphones to stay updated on local news sources. You should also check emergency alert systems for any critical information related to the blackout.
Emergency alert systems can also give tips on what to do to stay safe during a blackout or brownout.
- Ensure Water Safety
During a blackout or brownout, you can fill the bathtub with water to ensure water safety. If the regular water supply becomes unavailable, this will help you reserve water for essential purposes like drinking, cooking, and personal hygiene.
Also, you and your family can use the water to flush toilets for flushing mechanisms requiring electric power.
Filling the bathtub can ensure you maintain hygiene while waiting for power to resume.
- Charge Phones with your Car
When faced with a blackout or brownout, you can use your car as a power source by charging phones using its battery. Charged phones can help you stay informed on knowing what to do to stay safe during a blackout that decides to prolong.
For this to happen, keep your car’s battery charged beforehand so that it’s ready to provide emergency power when needed.
Also, use an appropriate DC-to-AC power inverter to convert your car’s battery power into usable AC electricity for charging small electronic devices. However, be mindful of not draining your car’s battery as you don’t want it to become unable to start when necessary.
- Beware of Carbon Monoxide
Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning is a serious risk during blackouts since you may use it to cook for your family.
However, you should avoid using gas-powered generators, charcoal grills, camp stoves, or propane heaters indoors. This is because they create carbon monoxide that can build up and cause harm.
So, to stay safe while using such equipment, ensure you use them outdoors. Also, keep them safe from windows, doors, and vents.
In order to get ready for this scenario, install carbon monoxide detectors in your home. It can be an extra safety measure against this odorless and potentially deadly gas.
- Release the Garage Door
If you have an electrically operated garage door, you should manually release it in case of a power outage. You may need to take kids to school when a blackout occurs, so learning how to do it is crucial.
When the door is functioning well, familiarize yourself with the emergency release mechanism on the garage door opener. It usually involves pulling a cord or lever to disengage the motorized operation.
Practice using this manual release beforehand to easily and safely open or close your garage door during a blackout.
Remember, prioritizing your safety and taking precautions during power outages is paramount in keeping your family, home, and appliances safe.
By following these tips, you can better navigate through blackouts or brownouts and minimize potential risks.
However, there are instances when blackouts prolong. So, you wonder what to do to stay safe during such a blackout. With these instances, you need more precautions since these are exceptional cases.
Coping with a Prolonged Blackout
You should know how to stay safe during a blackout that has taken longer than expected. Have coping mechanisms that can help you handle the challenges that come with it. Here, we’ll detail these aspects and provide practical tips on coping effectively.
Alternative Cooking Means
Without electricity, you can have difficulty coping with traditional cooking methods. Therefore, it becomes crucial to explore alternative cooking options.
One feasible option is using portable camping stoves or grills that run on propane or charcoal. You can set these up outdoors in well-ventilated areas like patios or backyards.
If outdoor cooking isn’t possible, you can opt for a gas-powered stove or oven as a reliable alternative. However, while using this, you must ensure proper ventilation for safety reasons.
Also, you can stock up on non-perishable food items such as canned goods and emergency dry snacks.
Heating Your Home During a Power Outage
A prolonged blackout can leave your home feeling uncomfortably chilly. You should consider alternative heat sources to stay warm without relying on electrical heating systems.
A wood-burning fireplace or stove can efficiently provide warmth if you can access firewood or logs. However, ensure proper ventilation while using such appliances and take precautions against carbon monoxide poisoning.
You can choose to install detectors and slightly open doors or windows. Additionally, you can consider layering clothing and using blankets or sleeping bags to conserve body heat.
Keeping Window Shades and Blinds Down
While heating may be an issue during a prolonged blackout, extreme temperatures might still arise in certain climates making cooling equally important.
Keeping window shades and blinds down is beneficial to keep your home cool. This helps block out direct sunlight and reduces the amount of heat entering your living space through windows.
Alternatively, you can strategically open windows during cooler times of the day to create cross ventilation. This will allow fresh air to circulate and cool down your home.
Remember to shut windows when the outside temperature rises.
Sanitation and Hygiene Alternatives
Maintaining good sanitation and hygiene practices can be challenging without running water or electricity. However, here are some alternatives to consider.
Stock up on bottled water for drinking, cooking, and personal hygiene needs. You can substitute washing hands with hand sanitizers if possible. Also, keep wet wipes or moist towels handy for quick freshening up.
Additionally, invest in portable camping toilets or chemical toilets if facilities are inaccessible. Dispose of waste properly, following local regulations or guidelines provided during emergencies.
With the above measures, you cannot get stuck wondering what to do to stay safe during a blackout. If worse comes to worst and the blackout prolongs, you can cope.
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Conclusion
Knowing what to do to stay safe during a blackout is vital for your well-being.
You can check out a story of an individual who experienced a blackout and learn how important it is to stay prepared for a blackout.
Before the incident, Texas native Randy had been in a prepping community for five years.
Randy was sleeping during a storm, and as a Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) user, he woke up during the night with breathing problems. He realized his CPAP was not working. So, he decided to check the issue, and that is when he discovered the electricity was out.
He pulled out his generator and attached his CPAP to it. It kept his CPAP running all night long.
He was not going anywhere the next day because it had snowed all night. So, he decided to connect his electric blanket to the generator too.
Because he was unsure how long he would be without electricity, he also decided to plug in his refrigerator.
The generator eventually dropped to only two bars. He then resorted to connecting the generator to a solar panel, which charged 80 percent after a few hours.
After two days, Randy was fortunate to have power restored. But some of his friends in the neighborhood were unfortunate enough to endure a blackout that lasted up to four days.
You can see how prepared Randy was when he acquired a generator and a solar panel. This is because he knew his area was prone to blackouts.
He decided to stay prepared since he relies on a CPAP machine when he gets breathing problems.
Everyone has different needs that electricity helps them to cater for. However, emergencies can happen when we least expect them, so taking action now is essential.
Don’t wait until the lights go out – be prepared, stay safe.