Be prepared for power outages

How to be prepared in a power outage

While we try to avoid power outages as much as possible, they do happen. This might be due to wild weather, natural disasters or equipment faults. Being prepared can help you stay safe and comfortable during these times. Here are some tips to help you get ready and stay safe in a power outage:

Before a power outage

• Stay Informed: Keep an eye on weather forecasts and any notifications from your electricity provider about planned outages.
• Emergency Kit: Prepare an emergency kit with essentials such as flashlights, batteries, a battery-powered radio, non-perishable food, water, and any necessary medications.
• Backup Power: Consider having a mobile power pack to charge essential items like your mobile phone. Make sure you keep your power banks charged and ready to go.
• Home Safety: Ensure your home is equipped with surge protectors to safeguard your electronics.

During a power outage

Stay safe

• Avoid using candles as they can be a fire hazard. Use flashlights instead.
• Treat every power line as live, even if it’s on the ground. Call EA Networks on 0800 430 460 to report any powerlines that are down, or at risk of coming down.
• Stay connected using a battery-powered radio to stay updated on the situation. Follow EA Networks updates on social media if possible. You can use your car radio to stay up to date and even charge your phone if required.
• If you are medically dependent on the continued supply of electricity, make sure you have an emergency plan in place. Obtain medical advice and inform your electricity retailer immediately. This is critical information and is shared with us.

Stay warm

• Dress in layers and use blankets to stay warm.
• Avoid using gas stoves or ovens for heating as they can be dangerous.
• Close doors and windows, pull curtains and blinds to keep the hot air you already have in.

Food safety

• Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible to maintain the cold temperature. Unopened fridges should hold refrigeration temperature for 4 hours.
• Use perishable food first, such as bread, meat, salads and dairy products.
• Leave already frozen food in the freezer if possible, freezers will remain colder for longer if they are full (2 – 4 days), than if they are half full (1 – 2 days).
• Check food when the power comes back on. If the food is still visibly frozen and the packaging isn’t damaged, you can safely refreeze it.

Know how to stay informed

• Stay informed during an emergency: Know which radio stations to listen to, which websites and social media to follow, the importance of getting to know your neighbours, and checking if you can receive Emergency Mobile Alerts.
• Plan for staying informed: Ensure you have a battery or solar-powered radio, USB chargers and/or portable charging devices, or a plan to share information with your neighbours.
• Radio: A solar or battery-powered radio (or your car radio) can help you keep up to date with the latest news.
• Recommended radio networks: The following radio networks work collaboratively with civil defence emergency management authorities to broadcast important information and advice in an emergency: Radio New Zealand (AM and FM frequencies), MoreFM (FM frequencies), NewstalkZB (AM and FM frequencies), Today FM (AM and FM frequencies), The Hits (FM frequencies).

After a power outage

• Check appliances: Once power is restored, check your appliances and electronics for any damage.
• Restock Supplies: Replenish your emergency kit with any items you used during the outage.
• Report Issues: If you notice any electrical issues or hazards, report them to your electricity provider immediately.