Prepare for a power outage
Although power outages are rare, especially in urban areas, it is worth preparing for them.
Power outages are becoming increasingly rare, as we have worked hard to improve the resilience of the electricity grid. Consequently, weather events such as storms or heavy snow loads cause outages less and less frequently. Nevertheless, faults in the grid do still occur—for instance, at construction sites where an excavator might accidentally damage an underground cable. For this reason, it is always wise to be prepared for a power outage, even if you live in the city center.
In exceptional situations, a power outage can last for several days
Every home should be prepared to manage independently without electricity for at least 72 hours. In the event of such a prolonged power outage, normal life becomes difficult:
- The refrigerator and freezer will defrost, so you will have to rely on dry food. This will need to be prepared using, for example, a camping stove.
- The toilet will not flush, and no water will flow from the taps.
- Network connections—such as mobile phone calls and the internet—will not work. Payment cards cannot be used.
- Heating will not work, so it can get very cold in winter.
- You will not be able to refuel your car, and public transport will come to a halt.
- Shops may be closed or out of stock.
- It may be difficult to obtain medication from pharmacies.
When a power outage occurs:
- Disconnect electrical appliances to prevent potential equipment damage or fires when the power returns.
- Draw some drinking water into a container, as the water supply may soon be cut off.
- Avoid opening the refrigerator or freezer; food will stay preserved for several hours during a power outage as long as the doors remain closed. Food can also be kept outdoors if the temperature is below +6°C.
- If you use candles, remember to take precautions against fire.
- Most heating systems rely on electricity. If you have a fireplace, use it for heating.
How to prepare for a long power outage
- Gather enough warm clothing, blankets, or duvets for everyone.
- Have clean, empty containers with lids available for storing water.
- Ensure you have a supply of easy-to-prepare dry food for several days—including for pets. You will need a camping stove and matches for food preparation.
- Make sure you have a battery-operated radio and a flashlight at home—along with spare batteries.
- It is a good idea to get a portable power bank for charging your mobile phone.
- Keep some cash on hand in case payment cards cannot be used.
- Ensure you always have at least a three-day supply of essential medications.
- Every home should have firefighting equipment, such as a fire extinguisher or a fire blanket.
- Check that you have a first aid kit and hygiene supplies at home.
Read more about preparedness
Authorities and organizations have drawn up a useful preparedness recommendation for households.