The Power Cut Essentials Checklist

Let's face it, power cuts are such an inconvenience!

And what's worse is, sometimes we can't plan for them. They can be caused by bad stormy weather, system faults, fires, accidents & so much more.

But don't worry!

If you do find yourself caught in a power cut, we have put together a checklist of all the essentials you'll need to stay safe.

Power cut essentials

Portable generators

We need electricity for so many things - our appliances, for lighting when it gets dark, to charge our beloved electrical devices.

When you're power has been cut off and you know it's unfortunately going to be off for a while, hire a portable generator.

Our range of generators are fuel powered to be able to keep your electricals working when your main power supply is out.

However, the slight downfall for these generators is that they will need to be kept outside as they emit harmful fumes.

But if the weather is wet, you won't be able to use one unless you have a suitable covering like a generator tent, heavy-duty waterproof tarp or even a small wooden shelter with ventilation.

Portable generators need to be kept dry and in a secure spot away at least 5 metres from yours and your neighbours home.

If left to get wet, you risk being electrocuted (which we definitely want to avoid!) and the generator will also get damaged.

Heaters

These days, our boilers and heating systems are connected to electricity - not helpful if you're experiencing a power cut.

At HSS DIY, you can hire a catalytic cabinet heaters to keep you and your family warm until the power returns.

Because they're lightweight & mobile, you can use the castors to move them around your home so the heat goes where it's needed most.

Another essential on the list - clothing! Get layered up.

Wear your fluffy socks, grab a thick jumper and snuggle in to the softest blanket you can find to help keep you warm. If you have a hot water bottle too, bonus!

Lighting

We don't want to be left in the dark when there's a power outage, so make sure you add lighting to your power cut essentials checklist!

We have several battery operated LED stand lights that you can hire to make it easier to see around your home in the night time.

You can also buy torches or light candles if you need more light in your home. Just make sure you have enough batteries, matches or lighters to keep them going.

Portable Charger

To make sure you can stay in contact with your loved ones when the power's out, it might be best to invest in a portable phone charger.

If you haven't got any electricity, charging your phone will be impossible.

But having a portable charger means you can keep your phone on throughout the power outage.

Don't forget to keep it charged and in a safe place for if and when you need it.

Non-perishable foods

If your cooker is electric, you won't be able to use it during a power cut, which is absolutely devasting if you've got a craving for something you can't make!

Having a stock on ready-to-eat non-perishable & tinned food means you'll have enough to eat without the need to warm or cook them.

You'll also need a few litres of bottled water to drink too.

First aid kit

Here is another top power cut essential.

It's always a good idea to have a first aid kit handy for any situation.

There are so many things that can happen when you're trying to navigate around your home in the dark.

You could bang something, fall, trip...too many hazards to think about!

Having a basic supply of plasters, bandages and antiseptic wipes will help you out if you've accidentally cut or scraped yourself during a power cut.

Stay safe in a power cut with HSS DIY

No one enjoys being in a power cut but if we're faced with bad weather, fires or system faults, sometimes there's nothing we can do.

Having the essentials ready & being able to hire specific equipment means you won't be left feeling unprepared.

From generators to non-perishable foods, we hope our power cut essentials checklist can keep you and your family safe whilst the electricity is out.

Get in touch with our live chat agents if you have any questions about hiring our range of generators, lighting or heaters.