There are some simple things that can be done to stay safe and comfortable during load-shedding.
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Here are some tips to get through load-shedding:
• Keep checking your load-shedding schedule and plan on the assumption that load-shedding will take place.
• Think about communication. Ensure that your cell phone, laptop and tablet are always fully charged when power is available.
• Make sure that your vehicle always has petrol because many petrol stations cannot pump fuel during power outages.
• ATMs cannot operate without electricity, so make sure you have enough cash with you.
• Make sure that the back-up batteries in your electrically operated gates, garage doors and security systems are in good condition to last through periods of load-shedding.
• Keep temporary lighting readily available and make sure you put these items in places where they will be easy to find in the dark.
• Boil water and keep it in thermos flasks for hot drinks for times when the power is scheduled to be switched off.
• Use an insulating cover on teapots and other pots and pans to keep drinks hot and meals warm.
• Prepare meals beforehand in readiness for periods when there will be power cuts.
• Obtain a small stand-by bottled LP gas heating ring for essential cooking and to boil water for hot beverages.
• Keep adequate stocks of essential foodstuffs.
• Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed. A power outage lasting four hours should not cause food spoilage, and a freezer should keep frozen food safe for at least a day. It is a good idea to have alternative snacks available that do not need refrigeration.
• Most medication requiring refrigeration can be kept in a closed fridge for several hours without spoiling.
• Fill plastic containers with water, leaving some space inside each container for expansion during freezing. Leave these bottles in a deep freeze or the freezer compartment of your fridge. This frozen bottled water will help keep food cold during a power outage.
• If circumstances dictate that you cannot be without power, even during periods of load-shedding, you may want to consider investing in a petrol, diesel or gas-powered generator, or a UPS system designed to power those pieces of equipment and appliances that you consider essential.
• Information obtained from Eskom.
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