Rotating brownouts? 5 essentials things to prepare

Several parts of the Philippines have been experiencing rotational brownouts this week, as the National Grid Corporation Philippines (NGCP) puts Luzon and Visays grids on red and yellow alerts .

In a statement on Thursday, Meralco said that the power outage has affected more than 320,000 customers in parts of Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, Metro Manila, Pampanga, Quezon, and Rizal.

With unexpected power outages occurring in different parts of the country, it is best to stay prepared in case emergencies arise.

Here are five essential things you should prepare during a brownout, according to the Philippine National Police and the American Red Cross:

1. Flashlights and portable fans

Instead of using candles, which can pose a fire hazard and add to the already unbearable heat, choose having a flashlight instead.

Flashlights provide immediate source of light, helping prevent accidents and allowing safer movement inside the house.

Meanwhile, as heat indexes soar, portable and rechargeable fans become essential in providing comfort and relief during power outages and ensure we are safe from heat illnesses. Consider investing in long-lasting models such as those from Jisulife, Orashare, and Akari among others. They can operate for hours on a single charge.

2. Batteries and Power Banks

Batteries and power banks are essential during brownouts as they are able to provide backup power for important devices.

Power banks with capacities of at least 20,000 mAh can charge laptops and tablets, while those exceeding 20,000 mAh can can keep multiple devices powered and deliver fast charging.

3. Non-Perishable Food

During prolonged power interruptions, it is important to stock up on non-perishable food items.

Canned goods, biscuits, and instant noodles are practical choices because they are easy to store, can be kept at room temperature, and often require little to no preparation. These items are especially useful when cooking facilities are unavailable.

4. First-Aid Kit

A first-aid kit containing medications, medical supplies, and hygiene essentials is important during a brownout. It can help treat minor injuries that may occur in the dark, manage existing medical conditions, and provide immediate care in situations where medical assistance may be delayed or difficult to access.

5. Extra Cash

Keeping extra cash on hand is also important during a brownout. Banks, ATMs, and digital payment applications may temporarily become unavailable due to power interruptions, making cash the most reliable option for buying essential goods and services. — LA, GMA News