Don’t let down your guard when the power goes out

According to Douglasdale CPF chairperson Lizzy Mabena, the past few weeks have been excruciating for residents of the Douglasdale CPF policing precinct, who have been left in the dark due to persistent load-shedding.

Their frustration has been exacerbated by ageing infrastructure that prolongs the return of electricity after load-shedding. Some areas trip after every mass surge after power restoration, which means prolonged periods without electricity on cold winter nights.

Here are some safety tips from the Douglasdale CPF on how to keep your home and loved ones safe during load-shedding:

• Invest in emergency lights that will switch on during power cuts
• Make sure you have fully-charged torches accessible to family members
• Double-check that your alarm systems are in a working condition
• Ensure that you have backup batteries to operate your security gate and alarm system
• Some electronic gates open automatically during power cuts, ensure that you aware of this
• Invest in a power bank to charge your phone
• When you leave and arrive home, be aware of your surroundings
• Make sure you have sufficient alternative lighting, such as battery-operated lights, at home
• Ensure that your home is adequately secured, especially vulnerable areas such as windows and doors
• Make sure you have all the necessary emergency numbers saved on speed dial.

Related Article:https://www.citizen.co.za/fourways-review/383947/how-to-prepare-yourself-for-load-shedding/