Preparation for power outages
The production and consumption of electricity must be balanced at all times. In a potential electricity shortage situation, electricity consumption may need to be restricted to prevent the electricity system from collapsing. This coming winter, it is possible that short electricity outages affecting only some consumers in turn will ensure the operation of the entire electricity system.
Effects of power outages on municipal operations
The municipality of Janakkala has prepared for potential power outages in all its operations. Vital functions in Finland are excluded from power outages, and some properties can use backup power. All properties are also prepared with additional light sources for such situations.
Daycares and schools will operate as normally as possible, adjusting their activities to the prevailing situation. Power outages may affect meal times and menus.
The library will serve during short power outages depending on the time (due to the darkness of the premises) as much as possible, but it cannot offer services that require electricity. The library will be closed to the public during dark hours.
The swimming pool will close for safety reasons during power outages, as will other sports facilities, gyms, and sports halls. All facilities will be accessible for exit, and emergency lighting will function for the time the battery lasts. The duration of emergency lighting operation or the safe use of services cannot be guaranteed during a power outage, which is why services will close. After the power outage, there may be delays in reopening services depending on the recovery of facility and pool technology to the required level for service reopening.
In Janakkala, water distribution works during short power outages, but unnecessary water use should be avoided.
Janakkala’s guidelines for water use during power outages.
Personal preparedness for electricity shortages
Everyone can reduce the risk of power outages through their actions by saving energy. Energy saving consists of small everyday actions. Here are some easy ways to start:
- A cooler room temperature
- A lighter gas foot
- A shorter shower
- Less entertainment electronics
- Saving electricity, especially during peak consumption times, which are usually weekday mornings and afternoons, is timely and important.
Households should always be prepared to manage independently for at least three days in the event of a disruption. It would be good if there were food, water, and medications available for at least three days.
Things that may be useful during a power outage
- Emergency supplies and a few liters of bottled water
- A lidded bucket or canister
- Plastic bags and toilet paper
- A flashlight and batteries
- Candles and matches
- A battery-operated radio and batteries
- A charged power bank to charge a mobile phone
- Firewood if there is a fireplace or wood stove at home
- A small amount of cash
- Essential medications and pain relief
- Moist wipes
- Firefighting equipment, such as a fire blanket
- First aid kit
- Face masks and hand sanitizer