Power cut hints

Press, 8 June 1989, Page 37

Power cut hints

If your electricity should fail for any reason, then you can be assured that work to restore it will begin as soon as possible. The following hints may be of interest: Switch off all electric appliances but leave at least one light switched on so you know when power is restored. Make sure all heaters are well clear of furniture, curtains, etc., to avoid the risk of fire when electricity is restored.

Do not open the door of a fridge or freezer more than is necessary. Examine all frozen food when power is restored — it should be all right for at least eight hours — any that show signs of thawing should be used first.

If you have an alternative form of heating, be sure it is used safely. Do not leave kerosene heaters or oil stoves in draughts or where they can be knocked over. Do

when it is alight and get it checked if it has not been used recently. Wear warm clothing and move around as much as possible.. If you know before hand that electricity will be cut off, boil some water to keep between your knees if you are sitting or lying down. Also, keep some water in a vacuum flask to make coffee, tea or soup. And if you cannot keep warm at home, go out to a warm library, community centre or to neighbours. If you have to use candles take special care. Remember that while the power is off your doorbell will not work, unless it is battery operated. Also, electric clocks will have stopped and will need adjustment, including the one on the cooker, microwave and video.

If a storm is raging and the lights show signs of flickering or dipping, it would be wise to prepare things as outlined above — just in case.