The fear of a blackout is increasing in Germany. If the worst comes to the worst, the infrastructure that is essential for survival can collapse. This is the best way to prepare for a possible power failure.

Most people in Germany have probably never experienced a longer power outage. According to the Federal Office for Civil Protection and Disaster Assistance (BBK), German households had to do without electricity for just under eleven minutes in 2020. But in view of the energy crisis, fears are growing in this country that there could be longer blackouts in winter.

In the event of a widespread power failure, the vital infrastructure can be lost. For example, there can be disruptions in the supply of tap water, the heating stays cold and the stove in the kitchen no longer starts. There is no more fuel at gas stations. Mobile networks, landlines and the Internet are out, supermarket checkouts no longer work, as do refrigerators and freezers. ATMs no longer dispense cash, trains and subways stand still, elevators get stuck. How can you prepare for such a power outage and what to do if there is no light?

Heating without electricity

If the heating fails, it quickly gets cold in the apartment. If you have a fireplace or stove, you should have a supply of coal, briquettes or wood just in case. Warm clothes and blankets can also replace the heating for a while. If possible, stay in a room with closed doors. Don’t forget: regular airing!

What to do if the light goes out?

Alternative light sources such as a battery-powered flashlight, camping or outdoor lights can provide light in the event of a power failure. Candles, lighters and matches as well as LED lights or kerosene lanterns are also good alternatives.

When the kitchen stays cold

Not much is possible without electricity, even in the best-equipped kitchen. The Federal Office for Civil Protection and Disaster Assistance recommends a camping stove. This allows you to prepare smaller meals if the stove fails. Barbecues that run on charcoal or gas are also a good alternative – but only on the balcony or in the garden!

Since the infrastructure in supermarkets could also collapse in the event of a blackout, the BBK also advises stocking up on groceries. This includes eating and drinking for ten days. That means: at least two liters of liquid per day and about 2200 calories per person per day. Choose foods that have a long shelf life, such as pasta, rice, legumes and bread, as well as canned or jarred vegetables and fruit. Food that can be eaten cold and uncooked if necessary is also important.

Cash, batteries and more

If the power goes out, there is a high probability that ATMs will no longer work either. The BBK therefore advises having a reasonable amount of cash available.

In addition, the batteries of laptops, mobile phones and the like should be fully charged. Power banks or solar-powered battery chargers can also be of great help in the event of a power failure. Essential in the event of a longer power outage: a battery-operated radio or crank radio with which you can follow notifications from the authorities.

You can read here exactly which emergency supplies you should have in the house.

And here’s what equipment you need to survive blackouts.

(This article was first published on Tuesday, October 18, 2022.)