Tips during water and electricity outage
ALL consumers have the right to satisfaction of basic needs; to have access to basic essential goods and services such as water and electricity. In Fiji, while there are robust policies and industrial level commitment in place to ensure that all Fijians have access to water and electricity, at times there are external or unforeseeable factors which may compromise consumers access to water and electricity. This may include but not limited to adverse weather, mechanical faults and ageing infrastructure. Such factors at times temporarily limits or stops access to water and electricity with the recent adverse weather a good example.
Therefore, under such circumstances, the Consumer Council of Fiji urges consumers to be responsible and take heed of the following tips during water and electricity cuts.
Water cuts
We all use water for drinking, washing, cleaning, cooking and growing food – making it our most precious resource for survival. Even though water is essential for survival, at times we do face water cuts because of extraordinary circumstances. Therefore, let’s look at some tips for being prepared for water cuts and how to manage water during water cuts.
Be prepared for unplanned water cuts
There may be unplanned and unannounced water cuts because of adverse weather, burst pipes and other faults. Hence, as responsible consumers, we must always have enough water stored in a cool dark place which is able to last for a day or two. You can do this by:
Having a water tank. Water tanks provides an efficient and convenient means to store water which can last for
days. However, if you find this expensive, you can always look for empty drums and containers and reuse after cleaning it thoroughly.
Store clean drinking water in bottles and be sure to replace it regularly.
Have systems in place to collect rain water. This can also be used during normal water supply. By doing this you will not only save water, but money as well.
During water cuts
When faced with water cuts, go through news and media releases or directly contact to water supplier to determine how long the water supply disruption will last so that you can prepare for it accordingly. In instance the water cut may last for several hours or days, be sure to conserve water as much as possible. You can do this by:
Using hand sanitiser instead of washing hands with soap and water; Where possible, using disposable utensils to save water that would otherwise be used for washing dishes; Consider washing clothes when you have a full laundry load;
Use a bucket to flush toilets. You will use way less water this way compared with filling water in the cistern;
Collect rain water. This can be used to wash clothes and in lavatory; Cook once per day. Cooking multiple times means using more water; in the cooking process and to wash the utensils; Limit your shower time or consider sponge bath; and Make use of water carting services
Power outage
Apart from water, electricity is another
essential service which consumers rely on in their daily lives. However, similar to water cuts, consumers can also face electricity disruptions. Therefore, below are some tips which consumers should consider during electricity cuts.
The first action you should take is notify the utility company;
Have alternative source of lights. In today’s advanced world, almost everyone relies on electricity as a source of light. However, electricity cuts mean this light source is no longer available. Hence, consider keeping candles, solar lights, hurricane lanterns and torches on standby for possible electricity outages;
Unplug computers and other sensitive equipment to protect them from possible surges when the power is restored;
Leave one lamp on so you will know when power is restored. According to Washington Military Department’s Emergency Management Office, you should wait at least 15 minutes after power is restored before turning on other appliances in case there are power surges;
Use and store food carefully to prevent food-borne illness when power outages make refrigeration unavailable. Additionally, pack old newspapers around the items in the refrigerator and avoid opening it unnecessarily;
Use foods first that can spoil most rapidly;
Put your smartphone on power saver mode and limit its use; and
Consider investing in a power bank to charge your devices.
Fijians with any consumer issues are encouraged to contact the council on toll-free number 155 or email complaints@consumersfiji.org. Alternatively, complaints can also be lodged on the Consumer Council of Fiji Mobile App available for Download on Google Play Store.