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Power outages can be unexpected and disruptive, but knowing what to do can make all the difference. Whether Geelong experiences severe weather, equipment damage, or cyber-attacks, you can stay safe and feel confident in your emergency response with the information we share below.
Here are the most common causes of power outages in Geelong, tips to prepare for blackouts, and step-by-step instructions on what to do if you find yourself in this situation.
Common Causes and Effects of Power Outages in Geelong
Understanding why power outages happen can help you be better prepared. In Geelong, power outages are more common during hot weather and extreme events like bushfires and storms. This means that during the summertime, you should remain vigilant and ensure you know what to do if you suddenly lose power.
The most common causes of power loss in Geelong are bad weather or technological/infrastructure issues.
Weather-Related Disruptions
Geelong experiences a range of weather conditions that can disrupt power supply. Extreme heatwaves can overload the power grid as people rely heavily on air conditioning and fans. Bushfires and severe storms with high winds and lightning can also damage power lines and transformers, leading to blackouts. Stay informed about upcoming weather forecasts and be prepared for potential outages if meteorologists predict poor weather coming in.
If bad weather is coming, you should anticipate a blackout to ensure you will be prepared in the worst-case scenario. In addition to lost power, these dangerous weather patterns can also cause flooding, tornados, fire damage, and more. Always have an emergency plan, so you know what to do in these instances.
Technological and Infrastructure Issues
Power outages can also result from technological issues and infrastructure failures. Broken equipment, software bugs, and cyber threats can all disrupt the electricity grid. Geelong, home to crucial government buildings and industrial sites, faces risks if these are attacked or compromised. Regular maintenance and upgrades to the power infrastructure are essential to minimise these risks.
If you lose power because of these issues, you may also lose cellular or internet service, so having communication tools like radios or walkie-talkies can keep you updated on the news and allow you to communicate with emergency responders if needed.
How Do You Prepare for a Power Outage in Geelong?
Preparation is critical to handling power outages effectively. You don’t want to be scrambling to keep you and your family safe once disaster strikes. Make sure you get prepared while power is available.
Stay Informed and Know Important Contacts
Try to stay in the loop of current and upcoming weather conditions as well as power outage alerts. Daily check-ins with the weather forecast can help you predict upcoming issues before they strike.
Keep a list of emergency contacts, including your local emergency services, the best number to report outages to (usually your electricity provider), and the appropriate numbers for storm damage response teams. Having this information handy can save time and stress during an outage. Keep a hard copy with your emergency kit.
Create an Emergency Kit
An emergency kit is a must-have for power outages. Include essentials like flashlights, batteries, a first aid kit, non-perishable food, water, and necessary medications. Remember to stay informed and add your list of important contacts and a battery-powered or hand-crank radio to your kit. Keep it somewhere safe and dry that’s easy to access when urgent.
Develop a Communication and Response Plan
Have a plan for communicating with family members or housemates during an outage. Designate a meeting spot and establish a system for checking in. Determine a good person to contact outside the Geelong area to share your whereabouts and current status if you have cellular or internet service.
If there are other emergency contacts you want to get ahold of, add their numbers to your list of important local contacts. Cell phones, internet-connected devices, radios, or walkie-talkies may be used to communicate. Ensure everyone knows what to do in case of an extended outage or related emergencies like storms or fires.
Keep Important Devices Charged
Ensure your mobile phones, laptops, and other essential devices are fully charged before an expected outage. While you can’t plan for outages, you can charge your devices regularly (like each night when you sleep) so that they never go too long with a low battery.
Portable chargers and power banks can be lifesavers when the power is out for extended periods, so consider them a helpful part of an emergency kit.
Invest in a Backup Portable Power Station
A backup power source can be vital during an outage. Opt for an EcoFlow Portable Power Station, such as the EcoFlow DELTA Series Portable Power Stations, which can recharge using solar power and provide essential energy when the grid is down.
Something like the EcoFlow DELTA 2 or EcoFlow DELTA Pro can keep crucial appliances running for a few hours or even a few days, depending on the model and length of the blackout. Choose a portable generator appropriate for your power needs and ensure it’s properly charged and maintained before use.
Prepare for Related Emergencies
Power outages often coincide with other emergencies, such as storms, flooding, or fires. Make sure your emergency kit and response plan cover these scenarios as well. That might include investing in a sump pump for potential basement flooding, a family fire evacuation plan, etc.
What Should You Do During a Power Outage?
Knowing what to do can keep you safe and calm when the power goes out. After you’ve already taken the above steps to prepare, you won’t need to scramble – you can respond confidently and easily. Here are some immediate steps to take:
Tune In to the News
Tune in to local news using a radio for updates on the outage and any safety instructions. You can also use cellular data service to find local news updates, check for reported outages in your area, or opt into local emergency text messages. Staying informed helps you respond and make better decisions.
Get People and Pets to Safety
Ensure that everyone in your household, including pets, is safe and comfortable. If there’s a threat of tornadoes, high winds, or rain, move into a space without windows or doors. Find ways to stay cool or warm as needed. Consider moving to a public place like a community centre or library if the outage is prolonged or you run out of resources such as food, water, or medicine.
Conserve Resources and Energy
Limit the use of your backup power sources and emergency items to meet essential needs. Use flashlights instead of candles to reduce fire risk. Keep refrigerators and freezers closed to maintain their temperature and prevent food spoilage. Only charge one phone to maintain communication. These minor adjustments can go a long way in prolonging your emergency power supply.
Check on Vulnerable People if Possible
If it’s safe, check on neighbours, especially those who are elderly or have medical conditions. They might need extra help during an outage. If you can’t help yourself, utilise your list of emergency contacts to ensure they get the help they need.
Use Community Resources
Engage with your community during an outage. Neighbourhood groups, apps, and social media can be valuable resources for sharing information and support. Public libraries and community centres often offer shelter and resources during prolonged outages. Don’t be afraid to tap into the resources you may need.
Frequently Asked Questions
First, stay calm, check the news, and ensure the outage is reported to your utility company. Get everyone to a safe space and follow your emergency plan. Conserve your backup power because you may not know how long the outage will last.
During a power outage, prioritise safety and communication. Use your emergency kit, stay informed via a battery-powered radio, and limit the use of backup power. Check on neighbours and use community resources for support. Find ways to entertain yourself without electricity, like books, colouring, or sharing stories.
Final Thoughts
Being prepared for a power outage can keep you safe and comfortable. Understanding the causes, having an emergency plan, and knowing what to do during an outage are crucial steps for Geelong residents so these occurrences don’t catch you by surprise.
Don’t wait for the next power outage—take action now to ensure you’re ready. Invest in emergency preparedness with solutions like EcoFlow’s Power Backup, which can provide essential electricity for critical devices and appliances.