Don’t be left powerless during a power cut

Wednesday, February 10, 2010

Category: Personal Finance Tips

As a result of many households recently experiencing power cuts amid the cold snap, uSwitch.com is urging householders to keep a ‘handy guide' to staying safe and warm during a winter power cut.

Energy expert at uSwitch.com, Emma Bush, commented: "With this winter expected to be the coldest in 30 years and more snowfall predicted to be on the way, consumers should be as prepared as possible for any further power cuts.

"Energy companies will always try to get the supply back up and running again as quickly as possible, but in severe weather such as snow this can take time.  If you are disabled, chronically ill, elderly or have young children in your home, let your supplier know as they may need to make you a priority."

uSwitch.com’s handy guide is comprised of nine tips for surviving a winter power cut:

1. Be prepared by ensuring that torches, spare batteries, candles and matches are kept in an accessible area that is known to all.  Also keep a battery-powered radio tuned into a local radio station in order to stay informed, and store important numbers on a charged mobile phone.
2. Ensure that all electrical appliances and lights are switched off.  However, leave one light switched on to signal the power coming back on.  Also ask neighbours whether they have power; if so, check the fuse box prior to contacting the supplier.
3. If a power cut leaves a property without heating, move the whole family into one room (preferably south-facing) and wear several layers of clothing for warmth.
4. Be careful with alternative forms of heating, such as paraffin stoves.  Read the instructions and ensure that the room is well-ventilated.  Also ensure that heating appliances and candles are not left untenanted.  Furthermore, any barbeque cooking should only be done outdoors.
5. In the event of a power cut continuing for several hours, commence storing water in case the supply becomes affected.  If water can be boiled then put this into thermos flasks for warm drinks and hot water bottles for warmth.
   If the freezer loses power, refrain from opening the door unless necessary.  Food in the fridge could be moved outdoors to keep it fresh if it is cold enough.
6. Check in on any elderly or vulnerable neighbours, and invite them round if they are feeling the cold.  More bodies generate more heat.
7. Should the temperature drop to below freezing, use towels and blankets to aide the insulation of exposed water pipes.  This should help to avoid burst pipes.
8. Following a power cut, check water pipes for leaks and reset electric timers and clocks.  Also check that food in the freezer has not thawed; if this is the case, do not re-freeze it as this could make cause recipients to be ill.

……………………………………………………………………………………………….......

Homeowners who are concerned that their property is not equipped to withstand the elements could consider taking out a secured loan to rectify any areas of concern.  One of many finance options available, a secured loan for home improvements could allow borrowers to embark upon an array of projects such as replacing a roof that is in poor condition or insulating attic space.  Furthermore, homeowners whose properties have been damaged by the recent cold spell – perhaps via burst pipes – could investigate taking out a secured loan to fund repairs, refurbishment and redecoration as necessary.