Life Support Customers Urged To Prepare For Power Outages

As storm season approaches across Queensland, residents who rely on powered medical equipment are being urged to put a back-up plan in place for potential power outages.

Recent national figures reveal only seven per cent of life support customers have access to a back-up power supply, while 68 per cent mistakenly believe their electricity will be restored faster than others during an outage.

Even with life support status notified to their electricity provider, you need to have a Plan B. This may include arranging medical support, identifying alternative places to stay with power, or investing in battery back-up systems to maintain critical equipment and preserve refrigerated medicines.

Practical steps for life support customers include:

• Talking to your doctor about your needs and options
• Considering relocating to a friend or family member’s home if power is lost
• Investing in a battery back-up or generator for critical equipment
• Knowing the fastest route to your nearest hospital and keeping emergency numbers handy
• Testing generators now, ensuring enough fuel, and always using them outdoors

Severe weather can strike without warning. Life support customers are encouraged to act now to protect themselves and their loved ones this coming storm season.