Welcome to our complete guide on how to survive if the power grid goes down. If there is a power grid failure this is the information that you need to know.
How to Survive If the Power Grid Goes Down – Power Grid Failure Preparedness Guide
Imagine a scenario where the world doesn’t end, but the power grid goes down for a mere two weeks. That means no refrigeration for food and, in many areas, no access to water due to the reliance of modern plumbing systems on electricity.
Do you have a plan for surviving a prolonged power outage?
For many Americans, the answer is likely no. Yet, the prospect of power outage survival is a genuine concern. Some speculate that the goal of certain nations, like North Korea, is not to obliterate cities but rather to disrupt the American power grid by detonating a nuclear device in low orbit. Alarmingly, the United States appears to be inadequately prepared for such a plausible attack.
When considering which disaster to prepare for, a medium- to long-term power outage should be at the top of your list. The United States’ power grid is severely lacking, outdated, and ill-equipped to handle an attack or natural disaster. Whether it’s an electromagnetic pulse (EMP) from North Korea, cyber attacks from Chinese hackers, or any other threat, the power grid’s reliability is questionable. It’s imperative to learn how to survive a power grid attack or at least prepare for a potential outage. This guide will provide you with the necessary steps to do so.
Chances of Power Grid Failure
Four factors contribute to the increased likelihood of power grid failure:
Electromagnetic Pulse
As previously mentioned, the effects of detonating nuclear weapons in low orbit can potentially cause greater devastation compared to their direct impact on cities. Should a nuclear device be detonated at high altitude in low orbit, it would interact with our atmosphere, including the ionosphere—a crucial component for satellite communication, comprised of a vast sea of electrons.
Consequently, such an event would result in an unprecedented phenomenon: a cascade of electrical disturbances on Earth. The ramifications could range from widespread disruption to the power grid across half the country to more localized effects. Regardless of the extent, the aftermath of such an occurrence would undoubtedly be profoundly shocking and far-reaching.
Solar Flares
The mechanism through which a solar flare could disrupt a significant portion of the power grid is similar to that of an EMP, but in this case, it’s a natural occurrence beyond human control. If the sun emits massive solar flares, there’s essentially nothing we can do to preemptively prepare for it.
Historically, such events have occurred. In 1989, a solar flare caused a nine-hour power outage for millions of Canadians. The likelihood of this happening again is a matter of “when, not if,” according to some scientists, making it more probable than an EMP attack.
Cyber Attacks
This is the primary potential trigger for a widespread power outage that the government is actively preparing for. Even Congress has indications that malicious hackers, whether affiliated with terrorist organizations or foreign state entities, are exploring methods to disrupt the American power grid through cyberattacks. Even minor cyber disruptions could result in prolonged power outages in your area.
Although having electricity available in other parts of the country might provide some relief, it’s crucial to be prepared for even a short-lived, localized power outage. In a worst-case scenario, these hackers could instigate localized catastrophes near power plants using their control over the machinery.
Infrastructure Failure
The American power grid is plagued by age and neglect, making it susceptible to failure even without the need for an EMP, a solar flare, or cyberattacks orchestrated by international crime syndicates. In reality, a breakdown in one part of the country’s electrical grid could swiftly propagate to other regions due to the interconnected nature of the grid. With half of the country reliant on one grid and the other half on a separate one (excluding Texas), the entire grid could collapse like a house of cards.
There are various threats to the power grid, including man-made, natural, and those resulting from human error or aging infrastructure. Whether caused by deliberate actions, natural phenomena, or infrastructure decay, the prospect of a power grid failure, whether partial or complete, is a genuine concern that warrants proactive preparation. Here’s how to get ready:
How to Survive if the Power Grid Goes Down
Below are key essentials you should ensure you have in the event of a prolonged power outage.
Water
The primary concern during a power outage is the depletion of the water supply. Unless you rely on well water, most water systems require electricity for operation. A disruption at the water treatment or processing facility means losing access to this essential resource. It’s crucial to start storing water and prepare for the possibility that the regular water supply may not return.
Storing at least one gallon of water per person per day is essential, including the same amount for pets. This water isn’t just for drinking but also for cooking, bathing, and cleaning. People often underestimate their daily water usage, emphasizing the need for adequate storage to survive even a short outage.
Developing your water supply is advantageous, considering that water reserves occupy significant space. Living near a natural water source like a river or stream is beneficial, although it’s important to boil the water for safety. For added preparedness, consider installing a well on your property to access an almost limitless water supply.
Food
While food is important, dehydration poses a more immediate threat during a disaster. People facing food shortages often find inventive ways to feed themselves. Suddenly, those long-forgotten items in the cupboard become valuable.
Preparing for a potential food shortage or supply chain disruption is essential. If the power grid fails, access to food will become scarce. Shelves will empty rapidly, and reliance on electronic payments may become impractical.
It’s crucial to monitor food safety, especially regarding temperature. Any meat or dairy above 40 degrees Fahrenheit for over two hours becomes unsafe to eat. Traditional analog thermometers are reliable alternatives as digital ones may fail during power outages caused by events like a nuclear EMP.
Freezers can preserve food for up to two days, allowing time for advance meal preparation. While cooked food may spoil eventually, it lasts longer than uncooked items left in thawing freezers.
Light
While light may not be as critical as food and water for survival, its absence can pose risks, from inconvenience to potential injury or worse. In a survival scenario, even a minor mishap like a broken toe can escalate if visibility is poor. Therefore, having a reliable light source is essential.
While stockpiling batteries for flashlights is a common practice, they become useless in the event of an EMP attack. This limitation also applies to LED headlamps and other electric light sources. While it’s prudent to have these items, they cannot be relied upon during such emergencies. Despite warnings from organizations like the Red Cross against using candles due to fire hazards, it’s wise to keep some on hand. However, ensure they are safely stored in appropriate holders and never leave them burning unattended, especially while asleep.
Communication
Effective communication during a power outage is crucial for coordinating with family members both nearby and afar. However, in the event of a large-scale attack like an EMP, traditional communication methods may become obsolete. Even diesel-powered generators would be rendered useless due to the widespread damage to electronic devices.
Typically, cell phone towers are equipped with four-hour battery backups mandated by the FCC. However, these backups would quickly drain during a prolonged outage caused by hackers or an EMP. Although landlines theoretically remain unaffected by an EMP, the relaying centers connecting calls would be impacted. Additionally, HAM radios would also be non-functional.
Nevertheless, in scenarios other than an EMP attack, such as a power grid disruption by hackers, electronic devices can continue operating if alternative power sources are available. Cell phones, for instance, would remain functional for up to four hours after the grid failure. It’s essential to utilize this window of communication wisely during emergencies.
Carbon Monoxide
Carbon monoxide detectors are often overlooked in household safety measures, with concerns typically directed towards less probable disasters like house fires or break-ins. However, during a power outage, the absence of functioning detectors increases the risk of carbon monoxide leaks, which become more likely in such situations.
First and foremost, exercising common sense is crucial. Indoor fires should be confined to fireplaces, and open-fire cooking should be conducted outdoors. Additionally, if using a generator, it should never be operated in enclosed spaces, including garages, as this can lead to dangerous leaks into the home.
In the absence of detectors, relying on common sense and awareness becomes paramount in preventing carbon monoxide poisoning during power outages.
Summer
Summer presents distinct challenges for those facing power outages. Extreme heat warnings aren’t issued just for show; they’re crucial because high temperatures can pose serious risks, especially for vulnerable groups like children, the elderly, and pets. As discussed earlier, maintaining hydration is paramount during periods of extreme heat.
In such conditions, the demand for hydration increases, leading to faster depletion of water supplies. It’s recommended to consume a gallon of water daily to ensure adequate hydration. Additionally, staying cool is essential. Strategies include opening windows on breezy days, wearing light-colored clothing, and scheduling activities during cooler hours whenever possible. Cold showers can also provide relief if water access is available.
It’s important to be vigilant for signs of heatstroke, a potentially fatal condition characterized by symptoms such as nausea, weakness, dizziness, confusion, and hot or dry skin. Alcoholic and caffeinated beverages should be avoided as they contribute to dehydration in the long run, particularly on hot days.
Winter
During winter, the primary concern shifts to staying warm in the absence of electricity. With the potential loss of power, it’s essential to have traditional, off-grid fuel sources available to provide heat. However, precautions against carbon monoxide poisoning remain crucial, as previously discussed.
Clothing choices should be adjusted accordingly. Dark colors and heavy garments are effective for retaining warmth, and layering clothing is advisable. Sleeping arrangements can also contribute to heat preservation; having everyone sleep in the same room can help generate additional warmth through body heat. Consider investing in winter camping sleeping bags to ensure warmth for you and your family during power outages.
Similar to summer, vigilance against heat-related and dehydration issues is necessary, but during winter, the risk of hypothermia also arises. Symptoms to watch for include numbness in the extremities, stumbling, excessive shivering, slowed heart rate, lethargy, confusion, and delirium. If any of these symptoms occur, it’s crucial to warm up quickly.
Power Grid Failure Preparedness
Lastly, it the power gird goes down it’s crucial to take steps to safeguard yourself and your family from potential threats posed by other individuals in the event of a power grid failure. In such scenarios, human behavior can become unpredictable and even dangerous. Being prepared for self-defense can significantly enhance your chances of survival.
Stockpiling ammunition, including a variety of types suitable for handguns, shotguns, and rifles, is essential. Additionally, having ammunition for training purposes allows you to maintain proficiency in firearm use even during periods of power outage. Fortunately, ammunition remains unaffected by an EMP, ensuring your ability to defend yourself and your family against potential threats.
Moreover, beyond providing defense against intruders, firearm proficiency can also assist in procuring food for sustenance. Engaging in activities like hunting can supplement your food supply during extended power outages.
Ultimately, being equipped with the knowledge and resources to survive a power grid failure is paramount. Encouraging your neighbors and community to also prepare by storing food and water can contribute to collective resilience in times of crisis. By fostering awareness and readiness within your community, you enhance the likelihood of weathering any disruptions effectively.
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