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How to survive a power blackout

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The power's out. Again. It's annoying – and it can be dangerous. Here's how to survive the blackout.


Take action:

- keep a torch and extra batteries in an easily accessible place in your home;

- candles are romantic, but they’re a real fire risk – if you must use them, don’t leave them burning untended;

- if the power goes out, it's safer to disconnect electrical appliances – when the power comes back on, it may do so with a momentary surge that can damage appliances;

- there's a risk of refrigerated food spoiling during a blackout – as long as you keep the fridge door closed, a blackout lasting under four hours shouldn’t cause food spoilage, and a freezer should keep frozen food safe for at least a day.

Read more: Dangers that lurk in your fridge

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