Self-Reliance in Power Outages: How prepared are you?

A major power failure hit Kerkrade and surrounding areas on Nov. 19, 2024, leaving more than 28,000 addresses without electricity. Grid operator Enexis immediately began investigating the cause and repairing the outage. As a result, some residents were without power for several hours.

It is important to realize that power outages may continue to occur in the future. It is good to prepare for such a situation so that you are able to get through several hours without depending on electricity.

Candle at meter box during power outage

Health for an emergency kit

A well put together emergency kit can help you get through the first hours to days without electricity. This kit should include the following items:

  • Bottles of water (consider 3 liters per person per day)
  • Food with a long shelf life, such as nuts, canned vegetables and dried fruits
  • Stay informed via battery-powered radio and mobile with power bank
  • Flashlight with extra batteries, candles and matches
  • First aid kit with instructions for use
  • Blankets to stay warm
  • Cash
  • Tools, such as hammer, saw and cutters
  • Disinfectant gel, toilet paper, wet wipes, sanitary napkins, toothpaste and toothbrush

Keeping and checking

Store items in a convenient, easily accessible place. Use waterproof packaging.
Check the emergency kit regularly so you are well prepared for future power outages. By increasing self-reliance, you can better help yourself and those around you during a power outage.

Learn more

Beware of fraud!

The Rijksoverheid does not give away free emergency kits. Do you receive a message to request a (free) emergency kit? Then pay close attention. Never click on a link or phone number if you doubt the authenticity of a message. For more information, visit www.veiliginternetten.nl.