Don't be in the dark.
Know what to do.
Don’t be in the dark about the fact that you need a Power Outage Plan.
About
As extreme weather like heatwaves, storms, bushfires, and cyclones increase, power outages may be more frequent and last longer. Your power company will work to restore it, but it’s important to know what to do.
Everything you need to get started is right here.
Imagine the lights suddenly going out, leaving you in the dark with no idea how long the power will be out.
With extreme weather, outages could be longer and more often. Planning ahead is essential. It’s easier to plan ahead when the lights are on.
This website is here to help you.
Start by using the Power Outage Checklist to think about your preparation.
Then, complete the Power Outage Plan for more detailed steps on how to be ready when the power goes out. Share your Power Outage Plan with others who can help you.
Take action now – being prepared makes all the difference!
Check. Plan. Do.
Check
the Power Outage Checklist to start your preparations.
Plan
ahead and complete your full Power Outage Plan with your household.
So you’ll know what to…
Do
My Power Outage Checklist
Start your thinking here
This checklist is the first step in planning for a power outage. You don’t need to write anything down; it’s just a list to help you think about what to do.
It will guide you in creating a more detailed Power Outage Plan later.
It covers six key areas to think about:
1.
People
Talk with the people around you.
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- Make sure a member of your household is responsible for overseeing your Power Outage Plan.
- Practise the actions in your plan. For example, where to find torches or how to open the electric garage door.
- Think about the people you’ll want to check on in a power outage to see if they’re okay. (People who are vulnerable, family, friends, neighbours, pets.)
- If you live alone, let someone know your plan so they can check on you.
2.
Essentials
Think about what you’ll need.
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Make sure you have non-perishable food and drinking water at home.
TIP! Don’t forget your pets. -
Keep a three-day supply of any essential medications.
TIP! Do you use critical medical equipment at home? Check out Life Support Power Outage Plan - Ensure you have enough fuel or electric charge for your car (especially when there are severe weather warnings).
3.
Communication
Consider communication and information.
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- Keep your mobile phone charged and have a back-up power source.
- If the internet and phone lines go down, you might need a battery-powered, or hand-crank radio so you can stay updated on weather conditions and emergency information.
- Talk to people in your local community and broader network about staying in contact during a power outage.
4.
Light
Plan how you'll see in the dark.
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Make sure you have flashlights/torches or battery powered lights/lanterns.
TIP! Avoid using candles (they’re a fire risk). - Have extra batteries.
- Be sure to place your back-up lights in an easy-to-access place in case you have to find them in the dark.
5.
Comfort
Keep your household comfortable.
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- Think about how you’ll stay warm or cool without power (for example, keep your blinds or curtains closed).
- Have easy access to extra blankets and warm clothing.
- Think about different ways to cook food and boil water when the power goes out (like a camp stove or gas BBQ).
6.
Surroundings
Keep your home and transport safe.
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- Know any manual overrides for entry and exit to your property (like garage doors and/or property gates and doors).
- Think about evacuation including transportation.
- Think about how you’ll preserve any food you have in your fridge and freezer.
My Power Outage Plan
My plan, my way
You can download (or print) and fill out the Power Outage Plan.
Once completed, save it (and print it if needed), and share it with others who can help.
You can also email a blank Plan to someone else for them to complete.
Where to go for more information
Information during power outages in your area
Find your energy company below to get updates you on power outages. Visit their websites or call them.
Queensland
New South Wales
Sydney’s Greater West, Blue Mountains, Southern Highlands, the Illawarra and South Coast residents contact Endeavour Energy
Victoria
Southern suburb and Mornington Peninsula residents contact United Energy Distribution
Outer-northern and eastern suburb and eastern Victoria residents contact AusNet Services
South Australia
For most residents in South Australia, contact SA Power Networks 24/7
For people in very remote communities, power may be supplied via your local council or similar agency; check your electricity bill or with someone in your local community if you are not sure.
Tasmania
Western Australia
Northern Territory
For all residents of the Northern Territory, contact Power and Water Corporation
Tune your radio to stay connected
1. Search
Visit reception.abc.net.au to find your local radio frequency.
2. Write it down
Write it down, e.g. ABC Pilbara 603 AM — and stick it to the battery-powered radio in your emergency survival kit.
3. Tune your car radio
You can also tune the frequency to one of your car radio preset stations.
Visit 'how to listen to abc radio in an emergency' for instructions.
Share
Share your ideas on social media!
Help others to be prepared in an unplanned power outage.
Use these hashtags
#PowerOutagePlan #CheckPlanDo #KnowWhatToDo
