Seven load shedding life hacks to keep you sane in the dark

Eskom implemented stage two, three, and four load shedding this week, interrupting power in some parts of the country, reports Caxton Central.

Eskom spokesperson Khulu Phasiwe said the implementation of load shedding was due to the power system being constrained by a number of breakdowns.

ALSO READ: Eskom’s stage 4 load shedding is a sabotage plot – Twitter

The power utility said there was a need to replenish and preserve emergency water and diesel resources to limit high load shedding possibility in the following week. This means that certain areas will have times where there will be no electricity.

Customers can access load shedding schedules on the utility’s website. Eskom customers can also contact the customer contact centre on 0860 037 566.

These life hacks could help if you find yourself in a sticky situation.

1. Charge your phone using a laptop or power bank

If the power goes out and you need to charge your phone, you can use your laptop and a USB cord or a power bank. Most smartphones these days come with chargers that become USB cables that detach to the plug. Make sure your laptop has battery power or that your power bank is fully charged.

2. Let there be light

If you do not want to use candles as a light source, make sure you invest in solar-powered or battery-powered LED lights. You can find them at any grocery store and they come in very handy when you need a safe and reliable light source during a power outage.

3. Keep warm even if there is no power

There are a few ways to keep warm during a power outage. The obvious options are to stay under the blankets to retain heat and wear warm clothes. A gas heater is also a great source of warmth and doesn’t require any electricity.

4. Store food in a cooler bag

Although load shedding is not meant to last for too long in a day, sometimes food in your fridge can be spoiled in just a few hours when there’s no power. The best method is to take a cooler bag or bucket and put some ice in it to store the items you need to keep cold or frozen. You may also use your sink or bath and fill it with ice.

5. Keep your room insulated

When there’s no power, the best way to retain heat in your room is to make sure you close any doors or windows where a cold draft could seep in. You can use blankets or towels to cover doors and windows – this will help insulate the room.

6. Keep cool and stay outdoors during hot weather

When it’s hot inside, a power outage can force you to go outdoors and soak in the natural surroundings. Take a walk around the neighbourhood, go to a park with family or friends, hike and enjoy the outdoors until the power comes back.

7. Visit another suburb that doesn’t have load shedding at the same time

The easiest way to avoid load shedding in your area is to seek out surrounding areas which aren’t experiencing a power outage at the same time. You could do your shopping, visit a friend or go to a restaurant or bar to kill time until the power returns in your area.