In winter, short power outages may occur lasting for a couple of hours. Possible power outages are the result of limiting electricity distribution in situations where the demand for electricity exceeds the supply.
Outages can occur especially on cold, windless days. Any energy saving measures can help minimize power outages. But what to do in case of an outage?
Preparing for power outages
- Follow news and your own electricity distribution company’s announcements regarding anticipated power outages.
- Please note that power outages can also occur unexpectedly, in which case the public won’t be informed about them in advance.
- Also follow the announcements of your landlord.
- At home, all residents should have warm clothing, a flashlight and a battery-powered radio for following the news.
- In addition, drinking water and food that preserves well should be kept at home, such as canned goods.
Effects of a power outage
- lights go out and appliances can’t be used
- heating is cut off
- ventilation stops working
- elevators stop working
- water may not be available
- lights in the stairwell and yard may not work
During the power outage
- Don’t use elevators during the outage and avoid using them if there are anticipated power outages.
- Avoid using water – for example, using the faucets in the toilet.
- Use warm water with caution as it can be boiling hot.
- Avoid using the toilet. There should be enough water in the toilet’s water tank for one flush during the outage, however.
- Turn off lights and electrical equipment during the power outage.
- Avoid opening the refrigerator and freezer.