Preparing for a Power Cut
British Gas has a strong reputation for providing reliable gas and electricity service. However, there are occasions where weather or other unforeseeable events can disrupt power supplies. Here are ways that you can prepare yourself and your home to minimize the dangers and inconveniences of potential power cuts.
What to Do During a Power Cut
The first and most important thing to do during a power cut is to remain calm. Rest assured that British Gas is working hard to restore power and t is likely that your service will be back on soon.
In the mean time, protect your appliances and other electronics by switching them off and unplugging them from their energy source. During a power cut you run the risk of power surges, which can be a dangerous threat to your valuable equipment.
Creating an Emergency Kit
One of the first priorities in any emergency preparation is a first aid kit. When the power is cut you are more at risk of having an accident. The potential lack of light makes it important that you have first aid items gathered together.
The next thing that should consider is a source of lighting. Candles are a good idea to include, but your first light source should be a battery powered torch. These are safer and do not present the same danger of fire. Consider how many members of the family there are and how many torches you will need.
Next, think about your telephone. While mobiles and corded landlines will still work during a power cut, cordless phones will not.
After creating your kit, it is also important that you revisit it regularly in order to ensure that all components are well maintained. Mark your calendar with reminders to update your emergency kit with renewed batteries and supplies.
The final, and perhaps most important piece of advice, is to keep your emergency kit accessible. Remember, you will have to locate it during a power cut, which may mean in the dark. Keeping the kit in the same place always will help your family locate it quickly and without difficulty.
Think about Entertainment
It truly is not until a power cut that people realize the big role energy plays in passing the time. Without television, radio, computers, or even lights you and your family may find yourselves lost and very bored.
Wind up radios can provide excellent entertainment when the power is out. They are also a very good source of information and news should the power cut continue for an extended period of time.
Power Cuts and Heating Systems
When a power cut occurs, your heating system may be affected in a number of ways and this could lead to a loss of heat, which is particularly troublesome in the colder months.
You may be able to get your central heating system working again on your own, following these simple instructions. First check the time. If your system has a mechanical clock you may have to reset the time. If your system has a digital clock, try replacing the battery.
Another place to look is at the pilot light. Your boiler's pilot light can sometimes become extinguished if the power cut lasts for a particularly long time. After referring to your manufacturer's instructions you should be able to relight the pilot light.
Do not panic if you cannot find the pilot light. Many modern boilers do not have one, in which case you may simply have to press a switch to reset the system. You should be able to locate the switch using the instructions provided from your manufacturer.
If you cannot locate your manufacturer's instructions or do not feel confident fixing these problems on your own, then it is advisable that you call a professional.
To protect yourself from this potentially dangerous inconvenience, sign up for HomeCareŽ and rest assured that if something goes wrong, British Gas' certified engineers will be there for you.
Alternative Energy Sources
Many alternative energy sources such as solar panels and wind turbines will provide at least partial energy even during a power cut.
British Gas is working hard to provide customers with new and innovative power sources.
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