Are you experiencing a power outage in your condo and wondering how to make the most of the situation? While losing electricity can be inconvenient, it does not mean you have to sit in the dark and feel bored. In fact, a power outage can present a unique opportunity to engage in fun and enjoyable activities with your family members and friends without having to rely on electricity.
It is no secret that our daily lives often revolve around being glued to screens and consumed by technology. From the moment we wake up to the time we go to bed, we find ourselves immersed in a digital world that constantly demands our attention. It is easy to get caught up in this virtual realm, losing track of time and disconnecting from the world around us. As technology advances, our reliance on screens has grown, blurring the boundaries between work and personal life, and impacting our relationships, productivity, and overall well-being.
What happens when all of that technology goes away? With the Philippines being a tropical country, it is often vulnerable to strong typhoons and other natural disasters that can cause power outages.
In this article, we will share seven entertaining activities you can do when there is a power outage in your condo. From board games to storytelling, these activities will help you pass the time and make the most out of a situation without electricity. So, let’s dive in and discover creative ways to stay entertained even when the lights go out.
What to do when there is no electricity
What is the first thing that comes to your mind when the power lines run out? Probably worrying about your job if you are working from home or thinking you’ll be bored because you can’t watch TV or have access to stable WiFi. You can never really guess when the power outage will pass so you shouldn’t take the risk of draining the battery of your cell phone.
Unless you are lucky enough to have a home generator, you’re gonna have to be comfortable enough to pass the time without the use of any electrical system.
Here are a few activities you can do when the power goes away:
Board Games and Card Games
Dust off those classic board games or decks of cards hidden away in your closet. A power outage provides the perfect opportunity to gather family or friends and engage in some friendly competition. Rediscover the joy of games like Monopoly, Scrabble, or Uno, and create lasting memories without relying on electronic devices. Not only can this be entertaining, but it is also a great way to engage your brain in a healthy manner.
Storytelling or Reading
Embrace the power outages as a chance to immerse yourself in storytelling. Gather around with your loved ones and take turns sharing tales from your childhood or creating imaginative stories. Alternatively, grab a book, whether it is a novel, a collection of short stories, or a non-fiction piece. Maybe you’ve collected a large amount of reading backlog over time because you’ve always been busy with work or other hobbies. What better way to catch up than when you lose power? Just make sure you have enough light sources so you don’t end up damaging your eyes trying to read through the dark.
Candlelight Dinner
Transform a power outage into a romantic and intimate candlelight dinner experience. Prepare a delicious meal using pre-cooked ingredients or try your hand at creative recipes that don’t require electricity for cooking. Dim the lights, light up some candles, and enjoy a cozy and memorable dining experience right in your own home. Alternatively, the same idea can be applied when dining with your friends and family. Have you always wanted to go to one of those fancy restaurants with moody lighting? Go ahead and enjoy a meal together without any distractions from your screens.
Star Gazing
It’s less worrying if the power goes out at night. The outside temperature is cool enough to enjoy a refreshing breeze. Take advantage of the darkness and step outside to look up. When the city lights are dimmed, the stars become more visible, offering a breathtaking spectacle. Lay out a blanket on your balcony or find a nearby park with an unobstructed view, and spend time observing constellations, shooting stars, and the beauty of the night sky. It is a simple and some would say a cliche thing to do, but stargazing is one of the most relaxing ways to pass the time.
Indoor Picnic
What’s one of the best ways to beat boredom? Eating food! Go and revisit your food storage and see what snacks you can enjoy while waiting for power returns. Set up a picnic right in your living room. Spread out a blanket, prepare finger foods, sandwiches, and refreshing beverages. Whether you’re with friends, family, or enjoying some solo time, an indoor picnic adds a touch of whimsy and adventure to the power outage situation. This is also a great way to avoid possible food spoilage when your refrigerator runs out of power. Instead of letting raw meat defrost and lose its freshness, why not whip out a quick and easy recipe? Unless everything in your kitchen requires power to operate, you should have no problems cooking something up.
Creative Crafts
Tap into your artistic side and engage in creative crafts that do not require electricity. Break out your sketchbooks, paints, or colored pencils, and let your imagination run wild. Create beautiful artwork, start a journal, or experiment with different craft projects that allow you to express your creativity. You would be surprised at the amount of creative brain activity you gain when you’re not bombarded with constant information through television or the internet.
Quality Time and Conversations
Use the absence of technology as an opportunity to connect with your loved ones on a deeper level. Engage in meaningful conversations, share stories, and truly be present with each other. Enjoy quality time by playing charades, engaging in heartfelt discussions, or simply reminiscing about cherished memories. This can also be your time to make future plans with each other. Far too often, we all get so preoccupied with our own screens that we forget what it’s like to truly spend time with each other in a much more present state.
A power outage does not have to be a dull and frustrating experience. By embracing these fun activities, you can turn the lack of electricity into an opportunity for quality time, creativity, and memorable moments. So, the next time you find yourself in the dark, remember that there are plenty of exciting things to do without relying on your home’s electrical system.
What to do to prepare when the power lines go out
As much as we like to talk about finding enjoyment when your electrical outlets are out of power, it is also important to prepare when the lights go out. A lot of the activities we mentioned won’t be possible or as enjoyable if there aren’t any preparations made.
As a household member, it is your responsibility to make sure that things won’t fall apart when the power is out. No one really knows when a power surge will happen or a storm will completely wipe out the electrical grid for your area so it is best to have a comprehensive emergency plan.
Here are a few things you can do to prepare:
1. Create an Emergency Kit
Assemble an emergency kit that includes essential items such as flashlights, extra batteries, a battery-powered or hand-crank radio, a portable phone charger, a first aid kit, non-perishable food items, bottled water, and a manual can opener. Store these supplies in an easily accessible location. If you have existing medical conditions, make sure to include the necessary medications here as well.
2. Have Alternative Lighting
Ensure you have a sufficient supply of candles, matches, or battery-powered lanterns. These can provide light during a power outage. Remember to use caution when handling candles and never leave them unattended.
3. Stock Up on Non-Perishable Food
Keep a supply of non-perishable food items that don’t require refrigeration or cooking. Canned goods, dried fruits, granola bars, and nuts are excellent options. Remember to regularly check expiration dates and rotate your stock to keep it fresh. Additionally, it also doesn’t hurt to have a constant supply of these just so you can continue snacking on them regardless if there’s electricity or not.
4. Maintain a Full Water Supply
Fill clean containers with tap water for drinking, cooking, and personal hygiene purposes. Aim for at least one gallon of water per person per day, and consider having a portable water filter or water purification tablets on hand. Water outages are also common in the Philippines. It’s useful to always have at least one bucket that’s filled with water in every bathroom. You wouldn’t want to be caught being covered in soap and suddenly the faucet or shower runs out.
5. Keep Important Contact Information Handy
Have a list of emergency numbers, including utility companies and local authorities. Keep them in a visible location and ensure that all family members are aware of their whereabouts. List down every number of key family members and friends as well. If you’re looking to be more practical, include in the list a bunch of contact numbers for food and supplies.
6. Charge Essential Devices
Prior to a power outage, make sure to charge your cell phones, tablets, laptops, and other essential devices. This will allow you to communicate and access information even if the power goes out. Power banks have become such a common necessity nowadays. It’s just good practice to have a stock of these that are fully charged whatever day it may be.
7. Backup Power Sources
If you have the financial capabilities, consider investing in alternative power sources such as a generator or portable power bank. These can provide temporary power to essential devices or appliances during an outage. However, ensure that you follow safety guidelines and manufacturer’s instructions when using generators to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. These are heavy-duty devices that can cause significant damage when not used properly.
8. Safeguard Electronics
Unplug sensitive electronics, such as computers, TVs, and gaming consoles, to protect them from power surges when the electricity is restored. While certain extension plugs do have safeguards to protect your appliances when plugged into them, it still won’t hurt to be extra safe. Unplug your electrical equipment when not in use just for the sake of safety.
9. Maintain a Full Gas Tank
If you have a car, try to keep the gas tank at least half full. This ensures that you have access to transportation in case of an emergency and can charge electronic devices if needed.
10. Stay Informed
Keep a battery-powered or hand-crank radio handy to stay updated on local news and emergency announcements during a power outage. This is especially relevant if the power blackout is caused by natural disasters. If you’re on a pre-paid setup for your service provider, make sure to purchase a mobile internet plan for live updates from news outlets in social media.
By following these tips, you can be better prepared for a power outage and ensure the safety and comfort of yourself, your family, and maybe even your neighbors and friends. Remember to periodically review and update your emergency supplies to maintain readiness for unexpected situations.
Asterra’s commitment to providing affordable living spaces extends to ensuring that its residents are prepared for power disruptions. With Asterra’s innovative approach to urban living, their condominiums are equipped with backup power systems that can keep essential common areas and amenities operational during power outages.
With Asterra, residents can have peace of mind knowing that they are part of a community that values preparedness, safety, and sustainable living. Get in contact with us today and find out what adaptable modern living is.
Written by Renzo Guevara
