In nearly every single case of a power cut, it is unexpected. They are simply an accident that has happened due to extreme circumstances, sometimes on a small-scale domestic level or a large-scale level where entire villages find themselves without power; you need to know how to deal with an unexpected power cut and what you can do to keep yourself safe.
At the time of writing this article, there are currently 14 registered unplanned power outages across the North East; according to the Northern Powergrid, our local power authority, this number of outages could affect hundreds of houses. And they span from the Dark Skies National Park in Northumberland to just outside York. When a power cut strikes, the first reaction is that you are upset and annoyed, but what do you do next?
Not being prepared for a power cut can be dangerous; granted, they do not happen that often in the UK due to our constantly working power grid, but they do happen, and when that time comes, you need to be ready as a matter of health and safety. If you have the capacity, we always recommend having a generator. This removes worries, but we also know this isn’t always possible.
In this guide, we will look at what you need to know when there is a power cut, we are aware that not every home or business is lucky enough to have a generator, but if you do have the ability to hire one or buy one, we would always recommend it. Get in touch with TTS generators today to find out more.
What Is Causes Power Cuts?
In the UK, 99% of all power cuts are caused by the weather; whether it is a storm that provides thunder and lightning or a snow blizzard that comes down during the winter, during this time, you are more likely to experience a power cut. Lightening is one of the biggest reasons for power cuts; if a power line is stuck and comes down, it cuts off the power; it can also take trees down, pulling electric cables down with them.
But do not underestimate a snowstorm; they can be just as dangerous, adding weight to electrical cables; once they reach a specific pressure point, they come down.
Although we blame the weather for the majority of power cuts in the UK, some issues are caused by accidents, such as car crashes, construction work issues, and animals climbing on the electricity poles. Another thing to remember is that there are planned outages; you may have experienced these at some point, happening when the power grid is carrying out planned works.
Different Types Of Power Cuts
Short Term
Generally, a short-term power outage is when a storm hits, a low-level storm that can cause a couple of issues around the area. It can also occur when the power companies are carrying out essential maintenance to the system.
A short-term power cut can be anything from a couple of minutes to a couple of hours; even with a short power cut, you could use a generator to keep things such as your fridge and freezer running to reduce the risk of waste.
In the case of a short-term power cut, we recommend you have first aid kits, a new water source, which you should still have through your taps, and a portable lighting source. Another thing to consider is a way to charge your phone during a power cut, even if it is short, as you may need emergency help.
Long Term Outages
This is the worst type of power outage, and you must be prepared for it! Long-term power outages can be incredibly difficult and challenging for anybody, but even more so for those living in remote parts of the North East; they are caused by a severe natural disaster more than anything; remember ‘Beast From the East, that caused thousands of homes across the North East to lose power, some for days on end.
When this kind of power outage happens, you will likely need a generator; hiring one is always a great option, but depending on where you live, we recommend those living in remote areas purchase one. If you have a generator, you can continue life as close to normal as possible with backup power, allowing you to remain safe in times of concern.
How Can You Prepare For A Power Outage?
As we all know, power cuts happen when we don’t expect them, so they can be challenging to prepare for; one of the best ways you can prepare is by having an external generator to hand. If you have a backup generator, as soon as the power in your home goes off, you can go and kickstart the generator and use it to power some lights and cooking facilities; by doing so, you can stay warm, have plenty of food and have light as well.
A few other essentials we would recommend you have are;
- Warm clothes and layers
- Bin bags
- Paper plates, forks and knives
- Sanitation supplies
- Hand torches and head torches
Contact TTS For Power Cut Generators Today!
At TTS Ltd, we understand the importance of keeping your home warm and your business up and running, especially during a power cut. That’s why we offer a range of services to help you stay connected and productive even when the lights go out.
We have you covered, from generators and battery back-ups to power emergency lighting and heating in your home to help keep your business running. Contact us today to learn more about our products and services or for a free consultation.
We look forward to helping you keep your business running smoothly, no matter what happens.