Blackout Contingency Plan: What to do first in the event of a power outage
Created: 2022-11-21 05:02
It is often difficult to tell whether a power failure is a large-scale blackout.
In any case, one should know what to do.
A blackout can have many causes, be it storms, an overload of the power grid or targeted attacks on the network infrastructure.
But how do I recognize a real blackout - and what should I do in an emergency?
Power failure - what now?
First check the fuses.
© IMAGO/Michael Bihlmayer
What is a blackout?
A blackout results in a nationwide power outage.
To fix this, it can take a long time before the electricity works again - in extreme cases even several days.
The problem: It's not just the lights or stove that don't work during this time.
The water supply, telecommunications or money supply can also be restricted as a result.
Supermarkets and petrol stations will also remain closed.
In order to be well prepared for such a blackout and other crisis situations, the federal government recommends always having an emergency supply of food and drink in the house for at least ten days.
In the event of a longer power outage, other utensils are also advisable, such as flashlights, candles or camping stoves.
How do I know it's a blackout?
It is often difficult to tell whether a power failure is actually a nationwide blackout.
A first indication of this can be that not only does the light go out in the entire house, but also in the neighborhood and on the street.
In addition, in the event of a real blackout, there is no mobile phone reception, nor can radio stations be received.
In large cities, the starry sky should also be visible in all its glory, which is usually not possible due to light pollution.
"You can only know with certainty whether it is actually a blackout when the transmission system operator or the responsible authorities determine one and communicate this via the media,"
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Checklist: What to do in the event of a power failure?
You notice that the power is gone - now what?
First of all, keep calm.
Then it is advisable to proceed according to the following checklist:
In the dark: Find a flashlight.
First clarify whether the power failure only affects your apartment or also the neighborhood and the surrounding area (see above).
Also check the fuse box - maybe just a fuse has blown?
If the power failure is more extensive, you should either unplug your electronic devices such as computers, televisions or dishwashers or switch off the main fuse at the fuse box.
This protects your devices from power surges when power is restored, which can damage the devices.
In the event of a real blackout, you should quickly seize the opportunity to stock up on water: fill the water canister and the bathtub with tap water.
The pressure should still be sufficient for this.
Turn on your battery-powered emergency radio and scan radio stations for more information.
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If you're out and about and notice a blackout, it's best to get home as soon as possible.
If you have children, you should pick them up from school or daycare.
Also consider whether other family members, neighbors or friends may need your help.
You should now pay particular attention to older people who may even be bedridden and look after them.
By the way, not only supplies are advisable in times of crisis.
The Federal Office for Civil Protection and Disaster Assistance (BBK) also recommends packing an emergency backpack so that you always have the most important things and documents to hand.