Fire safety

• Ensure that flashlights or battery-type lanterns are available.
• Use proper candleholders, never leave candles unattended and keep away from children, pets and combustible materials.
• Make sure that stove elements and ovens are turned off.

Water conservation

• Water is an important public health consideration. We should all do what we can to conserve water supplies until full power is restored.
• Watch for signs of dehydration such as extreme thirst, feeling faint or dizzy with dry skin and disorientation. Drink lots of fluids.

Electricity conservation

• All businesses, industries and residential consumers are asked to reduce the strain on the system and wherever possible to avoid using air conditioners, swimming pool pumps and appliances, such as dishwashers, washing machines and dryers. If necessary, use should be restricted to between 8pm and 6am.
• Hang washed clothes outside to dry.
• Turn off all tools, appliances, air conditioners and electrical equipment, including tools and computers so that when power is restored there is no heavy load on the electric system.
• Battery-type radios are ideal to listen for news updates.

Safety on the road

• Use caution when travelling because traffic signals may not operate.
• Treat intersections where traffic signals are not operating as four-way stops.

Health tips

• Don't use charcoal, gas barbecues or home generators indoors. They emit carbon monoxide.
• Drink lots of water and natural fruit juices.
• Wear loose-fitting, lightweight clothing.
• Stay out of the blazing sun or heat.
• On the sunny side of the building, keep curtains drawn and open windows just slightly.
• Open windows out of direct sunlight to create a "cross-flow".
• Move to lower levels of your home where the temperature is cooler. (If living in a high-rise apartment, visit friends on lower levels, if possible.)
• Avoid strenuous activity.
• If possible, partially fill the bathtub with cool water and periodically wipe yourself off with a wash cloth.

Freezer and fridge

• Don't open your fridge or freezer unless it is absolutely necessary.
• Without power, a full upright or chest freezer will keep everything frozen for about 2 days.
• Without power, your refrigerator should keep food cool for 4-6 hours.
• Discard any thawed food that has been at room temperature for 2 hours or more.

Pets

• Keep pets indoors or in a cool area.
• Ensure pets have constant access to fresh water.

After the power returns

• If the main electric switch was turned off, check to ensure appliances, air conditioning systems, TV’s, microwave ovens and home electronics are unplugged to prevent damage from a power surge when the power is restored.
• Switch on the main electric switch.
• Give the electrical system a chance to stabilise before reconnecting tools and appliances. Wait 10-15 minutes before reconnecting all the tools and appliances.
• Check food supplies in fridge, freezers and cupboards for signs of spoilage.