Load Shedding - How To Cope When The 'Lights' Go Out
Load shedding has become a reality of life in South Africa, which means we need to adapt and prepare for when the electricity is cut off at short notice.
Here are 6 easy steps to follow to support your elderly parents through this challenging time.
Lanterns, torches and rechargeable batteries
A well lit area is essential with regards to being able to mobilize in a safe environment, and will minimize the risk of a fall. An economical way of making sure the lights stay on during load shedding is to placing a number of rechargeable lanterns in rooms that are frequently used like the bathroom, bedroom, kitchen, and in a safe spot at the foot of the stairs. Having a torch within reach will be helpful when the lights go off. Making sure the lanterns and batteries are recharged after load shedding will ensure they work efficiently the next time load shedding takes place. These items are easily purchased, and most hardware and large stores stock a range of lanterns, torches, rechargeable batteries, battery operated light switch ‘torches’ which are small enough to be carried around, and powerful enough to illuminate a room. Ensure that your parents have a power bank to recharge their mobile phones so they remain contactable
‘Eskom Se Push’ App
The App can be downloaded to your parents mobile phone or personal computer, and will ensure that they will be able to check the load shedding calendar. It’s a great idea for your parents to be prepared, and be able to check the date and time specific for their area in which load shedding will occur. The local radio stations often announce load shedding to the public during their daily broadcasts, which is another way of knowing when load shedding will take place on the day.
Gas
Having an alternative to electricity such as a gas stove is a good idea, but should always be fitted by a reputable installer/electrician. Gas bottles will be required to be checked and refilled with gas when necessary in order not to run out of gas.
Security
Making sure your parents’ alarm system is tested regularly and is in good working order is an important factor in keeping them safe. Unfortunately load shedding takes a toll on the alarm battery, which causes the battery life to run down quickly. Due to load shedding the alarm battery should be checked to be in good working order regularly.
Smoke alarm
Fitting smoke alarms in the kitchen and throughout the house is an important safety feature as the smoke alarm is an early warning system should a fire break out. The smoke alarm will be activated once smoke is detected in your parent’s home. Smoke alarm batteries should be checked regularly to ensure the alarm is in good working order. Placing a number of portable fire extinguishers in different rooms within the home is a good idea, and will help in dousing flames if need be.
Nourishment - Meals and drinks
It is comforting for your parents to have a flask filled with boiling water to hand, and know that they will be able to make a warm drink for themselves during load shedding. It’s a good idea to have a few healthy ‘emergency’ snacks in the grocery cupboard or ready-made meals in the fridge, which can be prepared in a matter of minutes should the need arise.