Long term power outages can be devastating. Not only do they cause losses in businesses but also cause loss of life. They can be caused by several incidents such as extreme weather and natural disasters. So how do you prepare for a long term power outage? This article provides practical tips on how to prepare for prolonged power outages.
What Causes Long Term Power Outages?
There are many factors that cause power outages but here are the most common:
Extreme Weather
Extreme weather is the most common cause of power outages in the U.S. 80% of power outages reports between 2000 and 2023 were due to extreme weather. It’s no doubt that the U.S. power grid is under strain from severe weather conditions due to climate change. And the damage caused costs over billions of dollars annually.
From wildfires, heatwaves, and hurricanes, extreme weather conditions continue to wreak havoc to the national grid. Most power outages during the same period were caused by rain and thunderstorms (58%), hurricanes and tropical cyclones (14%), and winter storms (23%).
The main affected states include California, Texas, Ohio, North Carolina, and Michigan.
Cyberattacks
Cyberattacks can also cause prolonged power outages as we have seen in the news. And unfortunately, they are on the rise and according to the IEA most utilities are poorly prepared or do not have skilled professionals to mitigate them.
As you’d know, most utilities use digital technologies to monitor business operations, plants, and grids. While this improves efficiency, it also increases the grids’ susceptibility to cyberattacks. Digital systems provide entry points for cybercriminals.
And when they attack, the effect can be detrimental. Recent attacks have caused damage to critical infrastructure which has led to prolonged power outages. But that’s not all, utilities are forced to halt operation to prevent data breaches.
Natural disasters
Besides extreme weather and cyberattacks, natural disasters such as earthquakes can also cause prolonged power outages. Areas prone to earthquakes are at a greater risk of experiencing long term power outages.
Earthquakes can cause inertial damage to critical infrastructure such as generators and transformers. Electricity lines and poles can also get damaged due to soil liquefaction and ground failure. Repairing electrical equipment can be a daunting task given the severity of the damage.
Other causes of prolonged power outages include human error, power surges, and spikes in power demand.
How To Prepare for a Long-Term Power Outage
A long-term power outage can cause widespread chaos and disruption. It is therefore prudent to prepare adequately. Here’s what you need to do:
Stock Safe Drinking Water
While it is possible to access safe drinking water during a long-term power outage, having bottled water with you will do you more good than harm. As you know, you should store at least 1 gallon of water per person. You should also store water for other uses such as cooking and laundry. Do not forget water for your pets and maybe houseplants.
Food and Supplies
Food and water are vital to your survival. And while you can do without food for a short period, going for weeks without it can be detrimental to your health. As the long-term power outage approaches, ensure to have adequate non-perishable food. Think of canned meat, vegetables, fruits, and similar foods. You can also do it with dried vegetables and fruits, which are high in nutrients.
Consider other supplies that are crucial to your survival. For example, if you are ill, make sure to have ample medicine that will last you the prolonged outage. Other supplies might include first aid kits and personal effects.
Lighting
During a long-term power outage, you’ll need a lighting system that can last throughout the evening. Ideally, you want a system that does not consume a lot of electricity. For this, consider buying LED flashlights and lights. Do not forget to store extra batteries.
While you can use candles, they lead to fire outbreaks if mishandled. If possible, buy a flashlight that is rechargeable with solar or one that comes with a built-in solar panel.
Backup power system
It is not uncommon for long-term power outages to span months. And as you know, your devices’ batteries cannot last for months. It is for this reason you need a backup power solution. And not just any system, but an easy to use, eco-friendly, and easy to carry unit.
Off-grid solutions like those of BLUETTI are an ideal option. For example, you can get the robust BLUETTI AC200MAX + 2*B230 + 3*PV200. The model has a 2048Wh capacity expandable to 6144Wh or 8192Wh depending on your needs. This is enough to run your appliances and devices for hours.
And since it comes with solar panels, you can recharge it during the day. The best part is that it can recharge from 0 to 100% within a few hours. Another impressive feature is the 4800W surge wattage. This can support large appliances such as refrigerators. Whether you want to connect your refrigerator, lighting system, or air conditioner, this model got you covered.
Another backup power solution you can opt for is the BLUETTI AC200P + 3*PV200D solar generator kit. This unit comes with 17 outlets so you can connect multiple devices simultaneously. Think of your laptop, TV, air purifier, or coffee machine, this unit got you covered. With a 4,800W surge wattage, you can run larger appliances such as an electric grill or fridge.
And thanks to the 2000Wh capacity, you can use it to charge and run devices for hours. The provided solar panels ensure it is always fully charged. They have a high power output, meaning charge takes fewer hours. Thanks to its quiet operation and eco-friendliness, you can use it in your bedroom or common areas.
The BLUETTI EP500 + 3*PV200 solar generator kit is an ideal option if you have more energy requirements. The movable power station has a 5120Wh capacity, adequate to run an entire small to medium house. The 2000W integrated inverter ensures you can connect just about any appliance.
Thanks to its robustness, you can load multiple devices at once. In fact, it has 15 outlets ranging from USB-A and USB-C to a cigarette lighter. But that’s not all, you also get a wireless charging pad so you can charge your iPhone and similar devices.
How To Stay Safe During a Long-Term Power Outage
So, how can you protect yourself during a prolonged power outage? Let’s find out.
Use Your Phone Less Often
A phone is one of the most vital supplies you’ll need during a long-term power outage. Unfortunately, you cannot use it infidelity. At some point it will switch off. It is for this reason you need to write crucial information on a piece of paper. Think of phone numbers, addresses, and any other crucial information you might need during a power outage.
Once you have this information in a book or a piece of paper, switch your phone off to converse its battery life. If you happen to visit a local hospital or shelter with power, consider carrying its charger with you.
Use Your Gas sparingly
If the long-term power outage does not affect flow of natural gas to your home, then consider using it to cook food that might spoil only. You can even use your gas grill to grill food to lighten up the mood. However, you should check for damage to your grill and also gas leaks to avoid a fire outbreak.
If it is safe to use, consider cooking perishables such as meat. Such perishables go bad within 4 hours if kept above 40 degrees. So, prioritize such perishables. If it’s beyond 4 hours, throw them out.
Unplug Your Devices
If you don’t have a generator, consider unplugging all your electrical devices. And if you have one, plug in the most crucial to avoid using a lot of electricity. When power is restored, there might be a power surge which can damage your devices. Unplugging them prevents such unnecessary damage.
Communicate With Your Loved Ones
Always communicate with your friends and family to let them know you are safe. On the same token, check on your elderly neighbors and family to see if they need any help. If possible, invite them to your home as they may feel safer there.
What Should You Do After a Long-Term Power Outage?
After a power outage, it is prudent to communicate with your loved ones to let them know you are safe and also check on them, if they were affected. Replenish emergency supplies as there’s a high likelihood of another power outage. Do not forget to check the perishables in your refrigerator. Throw out any that has gone back, and that which is yet to, consider cooking it as quickly as possible.
Final Thoughts
Long-term power outages are not only a cause of chaos and disruption but can also be life threatening. As such, make sure to stock adequate water, food and supplies.
