What to do during a blackout: What you should and shouldn’t do during a global power outage

At around 06:30 a.m ET. (12:30 pm local time) Spain and Portugal (with the exception of the islands) experienced an unprecedented blackout. Traffic lights went out, hospital ICUs ran on backup generators, people were trapped in elevators and public transportation, and major stations like Atocha, the main train station in the capital Madrid, had to be evacuated — creating a scene as worrying as it was uncertain.

What to do when a power outage hits

In a situation like this, it’s crucial to stay calm. Panic can lead to dangerous decisions, such as rushing onto the roads to get home as quickly as possible or making repeated phone calls. It is advisable to unplug electrical devices and avoid using flammable products that could cause fires.

Driving should be avoided, as traffic jams can become massive and never-ending. Refrigerators and freezers should be kept closed to preserve their cold temperatures for as long as possible. It’s also important to keep mobile devices charged and avoid making nonessential calls, as phone lines may be overloaded and emergency calls to 911 should be prioritized.

Having cash on hand and an emergency kit with flashlights, batteries, a battery-powered radio, drinking water, blankets, a first-aid kit, and nonperishable food is also essential. On the other hand, it is not recommended to connect electric generators or use candles.

Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all.

Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.