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When power outages strike without warning, they’re inconvenient and unsettling. They raise questions like, “How long will this outage last?” and “When will power be restored?” For Canberra residents, staying informed and prepared is essential.
If you’re in a blackout in Canberra, here’s what you need to know to get up-to-date information on what’s happening in your area, report a new outage, and prepare and respond effectively.
How Can I Check If There’s a Power Cut in My Area?
It’s easy to find out if there’s a power cut in your area of Canberra. Visit the Actew AGL website, which is Canberra’s primary electricity and gas service provider. This site, actewagl.com, is your top resource for current updates on the energy outages near you.
The website’s “outages” section lists current outages and active alerts. This section is regularly updated, so you can refresh it to get the most accurate and up-to-date information. Save this page as a bookmark on your phone for quick access during an emergency.
If you experience difficulty accessing the website, Actew AGL also provides updates through its customer service line and social media channels. These alternatives can be handy if internet connectivity is compromised during an outage.
What are the Most Common Causes of Power Outages in Canberra?
Understanding the multiple common causes of power outages can help you better prepare.
Common Causes of Power Outages
Storms are a frequent cause of power outages in Canberra. High winds, heavy rain, and lightning can damage electricity lines and infrastructure. Bushfires are another significant cause, particularly during the hotter and drier months. Fires can destroy power lines and poles, leading to widespread outages.
Machinery failures and circuit overloads also contribute to electricity disruptions. Depending on the extent of the damage, these technical issues can occur without warning and may take longer to resolve.
Areas Most Affected by Power Outages
Certain areas in Canberra are more prone to outages than others. Belconnen, Charnwood, Downer, Gungahlin, Kaleen, Mitchell, Tuggeranong, and Weston Creek round out the list of areas that typically see the most power outages.
By knowing which areas are most vulnerable, residents can take extra precautions and stay vigilant during inclement weather or high outage risk.
How Do I Report a Power Outage in Canberra?
If you experience a power outage, reporting it promptly can help expedite the resolution process. Contact EvoEnergy, Essential Energy, or Endeavour Energy, the three energy distribution companies in the region. EvoEnergy serves the ACT, while the other two serve the NSW region. They offer multiple reporting channels, including phone and online services.
When reporting an outage, provide as much information as possible. Include your location, any observable damage (like downed power lines), and the time the blackout began. This information helps the service team quickly assess the situation and prioritise repairs.
How to Prepare for a Power Outage in Canberra
Want to minimise the impact of a power outage? Here are some steps you can take to ensure you’re ready for any disruptions, no matter when they occur.
1. Creating an Emergency Plan
Having a plan in place is crucial. Discuss with your family or housemates what to do during a power outage. Establish a meeting point and outline each person’s role. Create a formal document and store it somewhere safe to reference when needed.
2. Assembling an Emergency Kit
Your emergency kit should include flashlights, batteries, first-aid supplies, and a battery-powered radio. Make sure it’s easily accessible. Store it along with your emergency plan so everything is in one place.
3. Consider a Backup Power Supply
Investing in a backup energy supply, such as a solar generator, can provide peace of mind. This is especially important for households with medical equipment that requires electricity. Solar generators like those from EcoFlow’s Power Backup solutions don’t need additional fuel, such as propane or gasoline.
As long as the sun is shining, you’ll be able to use your solar generator to keep your essential devices powered on during an outage.
4. Signing Up for Power Outage Notifications
Many energy providers offer text or email notifications for power outages. Sign up for these alerts before outages strike to stay informed about outages and when power restoration can be expected.
5. Keep Devices Charged
Ensure your mobile devices, power banks, and other rechargeable gadgets are fully charged. These can be lifelines for communication and information during an outage. To avoid getting caught with a low battery during an outage, always charge your phones at night and keep portable batteries nearby in case of an emergency.
6. Store Clean Water and Non-Perishable Food
Have a supply of clean water and non-perishable food items. Aim for at least three days’ worth of provisions. Consider items like granola bars and dried meat or fruit, which can last a long time in storage, so you don’t often have to replace your emergency food stash.
7. Use Non-Tech Entertainment
Keep books, board games, and other non-tech entertainment options on hand to keep everyone occupied during the outage. An outage of just a few hours may not necessitate this kind of entertainment, but extended outages lasting several days will require some creativity.
8. Keep Home Insulated
Proper insulation helps maintain your home’s temperature, making it more bearable during extreme weather without electricity. Get regular insulation checkups for attic space and walls to stay prepared if an emergency outage strikes.
Steps to Take During a Power Outage in Canberra
Once an outage occurs, knowing what steps to take can make the experience less stressful and more manageable for your whole family.
1. Ensuring Personal Safety
Your priority should be safety. Avoid using candles to prevent fire hazards, and unplug electrical appliances to prevent damage when the power returns. Steer clear of flood waters, bushfires, and damaged equipment.
2. Conserving Energy
If you have a backup power supply, use it sparingly—only charge essential devices to prolong its use. If you’re using a solar generator, recharge using sunlight when possible to make up for any power used to maximise your energy supply.
3. Communicating Effectively
Keep your mobile phone handy and use it only for essential communications with your energy provider and between loved ones. Inform family members and friends of your status and check in with neighbours, especially the elderly or those with medical needs.
4. Following the Emergency Response Plan
Stick to the plan you created. This will help everyone stay calm and organised, reducing confusion and panic. Review your hard copy of the plan so each person knows their role and the following steps to take.
Final Thoughts
Proper knowledge and preparation will help you minimise the impact of a power outage on your life. Stay informed by regularly checking the Actew AGL and your energy distributor’s websites or signing up for notifications. Prepare an emergency kit and have a plan in place to ensure your safety and comfort during outages.
If you’re looking for a reliable backup power solution, consider EcoFlow’s Power Backup solutions. It’s an excellent choice for ensuring you stay connected and comfortable during power disruptions.