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(CNN Spanish) - When there is announced power rationing, or sudden power outages, there are several actions you can take to prepare yourself, if you have a chance, and to cope with the suspension of service
MIRA: PG&E has begun cutting power in parts of Northern California. Nearly 800,000 customers will be affected
1. Use alternative energy sources
One of the first actions to deal with blackouts is to obtain additional batteries or other energy alternatives to prevent blackouts from affecting the shelf life of food and medicine. You can also have flashlights with extra batteries for each member of the house.
Candles or oil lamps also help maintain some level of lighting when you need it.
2. Establish communication channels with your loved ones
In order not to lose communication with your loved ones or friends, determine if landlines work during blackouts. In case of charging phones, such as cell phones, make sure you have backup batteries and calculate how long they can last.
3. Take care of your appliances
During blackouts it is necessary to turn off or disconnect appliances, equipment or electronic devices, because when the power returns, they may be damaged by "surges" or "voltage spikes."
4. Stock up on fuel
Make sure your vehicle has a full tank in case of an emergency, as in general the service stations tend to run out during blackouts. The fuel is also useful for power plants.
5. How to conserve food?
Foods that need refrigeration can be damaged.
Have a supply of non-perishable food for three days, as well as enough water.
6. Make the most of when there is energy to charge your equipment
If you are in a situation where electricity is intermittent, you should take advantage of the moments when the service is restored so that appliances such as the refrigerator can work. It also applies to recharge batteries and energy, such as cell phones.
7. Keep refrigerators and freezers closed
Be sure to keep the coolers closed as it is possible to keep the food cold longer. The refrigerator, for example, will keep food cold for four hours, while the freezer can last up to 48 hours while maintaining low temperatures.
8. Look at the state of food
This is a very important point, because food can spoil if the cut is too long. When electricity is restored, it is necessary to have a thermometer on hand, because if the temperature indicates 40 degrees Celsius or more, it is necessary to throw the food in the trash if unusual odors, colors or textures are present.
9. Use portable refrigerators
Portable refrigerators can be a solution when home refrigerators have stopped working. You can put dry ice on them to keep the cold point of food, because by losing its temperature, bacteria can grow.
Power outages Electricity
