9 items every Guyanese home needs to weather blackouts

For months, Guyanese have been battling with a series of blackouts that have been caused by issues such as the age of electricity generation equipment.

The government said they are working to permanently address the situation and revamp the electricity grid, but it could take some time before the Guyana Power and Light Company can get everything on stream. 

In the meantime, citizens must prepare for the inevitable daily power outages, which can last several hours. 

To beat the discomfort and inconvenience that comes with a blackout, we’ve compiled a list of 10 essential items every Guyanese home should have to make a blackout bearable.

Flashlights and lanterns: Being in the dark isn’t fun and can be scary for many people. Therefore, having flashlights or lanterns with extra batteries in your blackout kit is essential.

Candles and Matches: While they might seem simple, candles and matches are the ultimate work horses during a blackout. Candles can stay lit for several hours and provide a light source to conserve the batteries in your flashlight. Be sure to pay attention to your burning candles to prevent a fire.

Portable Phone Chargers (Power Banks): Mobile phones have become an important part of our daily lives. It’s important to stay connected during a blackout and communicate with loved ones, especially during emergencies. Power banks will provide you with a place to charge your devices until electricity is restored.

Rechargeable fan: For those living in homes without adequate ventilation or unwilling to keep windows and doors open in the dark for safety reasons, a rechargeable or battery-operated portable fan is a good investment. Apart from keeping you cool, these handy gadgets have the added benefit of keeping mosquitoes at bay.

Battery- or solar-powered radio: Being in the dark can be boring, reminding you of the days gone by. Having a battery-powered or solar-powered radio or television in your blackout arsenal will provide some entertainment to you and your family while you wait for service to be restored.

Repellent: A blackout is a dream situation for mosquitoes, as the lack of lights, fans, or air conditioning provides them with an opportunity to feast on humans to their delight. Having a can of insect repellent nearby is essential, as it will provide you with protection from mosquitoes and prevent you from contracting one of the viruses they help spread.

Non-Perishable Food and Water: Stock up on non-perishable food items such as canned goods, granola bars, and dried fruits. Also, have an ample supply of bottled water to sustain you and your family during prolonged outages.

Cooler or Ice Chest: Keep perishable items cool by having a cooler or ice chest on hand. Fill it with ice packs or bags of ice to preserve food that requires refrigeration.

First Aid Kit: Ensure you have a well-stocked first aid kit in your home, including essential supplies such as bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers. Be prepared to handle minor injuries that may occur during power outages.