Wherever you are in the world, the chances are that you've experienced a power cut or two in your life time. While they are sometimes an unfortunate part of modern life, power cuts can be a very unsettling and distressing experience as they are usually so unexpected. So, how do you get through a power cut? Here are a few ideas.
Have a Torch
While this many sound like very obvious advice, a torch really is your best bet during a power cut, as it will help you see where you are going in the darkness. Remembering where you keep the torch is also very important, as there is nothing worse than stumbling around in the dark, trying to find a torch that may or may not be there. However, it's important to remember that if you experience a power cut during the day, a torch won't be needed, unless you work in part of a building that is lit entirely by artificial light, such as a basement.
Check Your Electrics
Once you've located your torch (if necessary) check the electricity supply into your home - it could be that something just needs to be reset, and then you'll have power again. Similarly check for any burnt out fuses or other glitches that could have caused the loss of power.
Check With Your Neighbours
Once you've checked your circuits and you're sure that the power cut isn't due to anything in your house, then call around at your neighbours houses or apartments or houses, and see if they're having the same problems as you. It will be highly likely that they will, as you and your neighbours will no doubt be supplied by the same power grid. Remember, phone lines will still be active during the power cut, so if its late at night, or you don't want to venture out your house, then you can always call your neighbours and find out if they're experiencing the same problems.
Phone the Power Company
Once you've done all this, put in a phone call to your power supplier and try to find out what's going on. Usually in the case of a black out, most power companies will add a message to their automated services telling their customers that they are aware of power supplies in a certain area. If you hear this message and your area is mentioned, then the company have sent engineers to look at the problem, and power will usually be restored pretty quickly, as its in the power company's interests to make sure that their customers aren't without power for too long.
Get Estimates
If the power cut is going to last a while, the power company will arrange for emergency temporary power by hiring a diesel emergency generator until the problem is fixed. If this happens, try to get an estimate from the company about how long it will take and then sit tight, go round to a friend's house or simply curl up in bed with a good book and until power is restored.
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