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A power outage can strike at the most inconvenient time. Brisbane residents may be curious about outage information if they experience a blackout or are wondering how to report a new one that the energy provider may be unaware of.
Below, learn how to find updated information on current or upcoming outages near you. Plus, find tips on preparing and responding to an unexpected outage to keep you and your family safe.
How Can I Check if There’s a Power Cut in My Area?
Are you experiencing a sudden blackout and unsure if it’s just you? To check for a documented power cut in your area, visit the Energex website. Click on the “Outages” tab and use the search bar to enter your suburb. From there, you can check the Upcoming and Current Outages sections.
Here, you’ll find a list of current and upcoming outages in your area. Additionally, the website may provide additional information, such as estimated restoration times, so that you can plan accordingly.
Keeping tabs on outages can help you stay informed and prepare better. Bookmarking the Energex website on your smartphone is a quick and easy way to always have this information at your fingertips, even if your Internet is affected by the blackout. You can even sign up for SMS or email alerts, so you’re always in the loop.
Common Causes of Power Outages in Brisbane
Outages in Brisbane may be planned or caused by unforeseen events such as inclement weather or accidents. Learn the most common causes of blackouts and the areas most affected.
Common Causes of Power Outages
Power outages in Brisbane can occur for various reasons. One of the most common causes is adverse weather conditions. Lightning strikes and storms can damage electrical equipment, leading to outages. High winds are also a culprit, as they can cause falling trees that may damage power lines or even break the lines themselves.
Another significant cause is electrical failures due to aging infrastructure or unexpected events like cyber-attacks. Additionally, during periods of high demand, such as heatwaves, the grid can become overloaded, resulting in electricity cuts.
If you see a downed power line or are experiencing severe weather and lose electricity, you can safely assume the events are related.
Where Are the Areas Most Affected by Power Outages?
Certain areas in Brisbane are more susceptible to outages than others. The northern and western suburbs, including Bunya, Cashmere, Ferny Grove, The Gap, and Warner, often experience more frequent outages. Knowing these hotspots can help residents be more vigilant and prepared for potential power cuts. You can enjoy a lower risk of blackouts if you’re not in these locations.
How Do I Report a Power Outage in Brisbane?
If you experience a power outage in Brisbane, reporting it promptly can expedite the restoration process. You can report a blackout by calling Energex at 13 62 62 or visiting their website and selecting the “Report an Outage” option. When reporting, provide your address, phone number, and a brief description of what you’re experiencing. The more details you can provide, the better Energex will be able to respond.
Proactively reporting outages can help utility companies identify and resolve issues more efficiently. It also ensures that you’re on their radar, which could lead to quicker restoration of your electricity.
How to Prepare for a Power Outage in Brisbane
Early preparation is the best way to handle a power blackout with grace. It’s hard to know when outages will occur, so getting ready ahead of time will ensure you have the resources and plan you need to respond easily.
Create an Emergency Plan
A well-thought-out emergency plan will ensure the safety and well-being of your household during an outage. The plan should include procedures for staying in touch, meeting locations, and emergency contacts. Make sure every family member knows the plan and practices it regularly.
Assemble an Emergency Kit
A safe household is one with an emergency kit. Include items like flashlights, batteries, a first-aid kit, vital medications, and a hard copy of your emergency plan. These readily available items can make a significant difference during an extended outage.
Invest in a Backup Power Supply
A backup power supply can keep essential devices running during an outage, which is critical when family members rely on medical devices or cell phones for communication. Options range from portable power stations like EcoFlow’s Backup Power to solar generators and more sophisticated battery systems. Investing in a reliable backup power source can give your family peace of mind and keep your home running smoothly even when the grid is down.
Keep Devices Charged
Always keep your mobile devices and power banks charged. These devices are crucial for staying informed and connected during a power outage. Regularly charging them ensures you’re not caught off guard when the electricity goes out. If you charge your phone each night, you’ll wake up with a full battery, ready for anything the day holds, including a potential blackout!
Store Clean Water, Food, and Activities
In addition to your emergency kit, have a stockpile of clean water and non-perishable food items like nuts and seeds, canned goods, dried fruit, and protein bars. Also, consider activities like books, board games, or crafts to keep everyone–especially little ones–entertained during the outage.
Sign Up for Updates from Energex
Signing up for updates from Energex ensures you’re always in the loop about current and upcoming outages. Opt to have updates sent to your mobile phone or email, providing timely information that can help you prepare and respond effectively.
Steps to Take During a Power Outage in Brisbane
When the power goes out, it’s time to act. Here’s how to stay safe as you ride out the blackout.
Gather the Family and Review the Emergency Plan
When a power outage occurs, gather your family and review your emergency plan to ensure everyone knows what to do and where to go, reducing panic and confusion.
Use Backup Power Supply for Essential Devices
Use your backup power supply to keep essential devices running. Prioritise items like medical equipment, mobile phones, and other critical appliances so you can remain connected and access important information during the outage.
Check With Energex for Updates
Check the Energex website or their updates on your phone regularly to stay informed about the outage status. Knowing the estimated restoration time can help you plan your next steps more effectively and understand what to expect.
Avoid Hazards Until Getting the All-Clear
Avoid any potential hazards, such as downed power lines or flooded areas. Wait for official communication from authorities before venturing out or attempting any repairs yourself. Safety should always be your top priority.
Final Thoughts
Power outages are never convenient, but those who prepare will fare much better when unexpected blackouts inevitably occur. Follow our outlined tips and stay informed to manage power cuts more effectively and ensure your family’s safety.
Want to be extra prepared? Consider investing in a reliable power backup solution like EcoFlow’s Power Backup to enhance emergency preparedness.