Safety Guidelines During Power Outages
Former Ukrainian Minister of Fuel and Energy, Ivan Plachkov, has issued critical safety advice for citizens during power outages, while also detailing the severe damage to the nation's energy grid. He stated that due to massive Russian attacks, at least 80% of Ukraine's energy infrastructure has been damaged. The situation in the country is critical, exacerbated by an acute shortage of equipment and funding for repairs. These widespread blackouts present unique dangers that many households may not be accustomed to managing.
Plachkov stressed the vital importance of following safety rules during electricity cuts. He explained that
"power outages involve serious voltage fluctuations. For this reason, you should not leave electrical appliances plugged into outlets unless absolutely necessary."Among his key recommendations:
- Avoid leaving chargers, televisions, computers, and other devices connected to the power grid, especially when no one is home.
- "Only the bare minimum of essential appliances should be kept operational," he added.
Safety When Using Gas Stoves
Furthermore, Plachkov highlighted the dangers of using gas stoves for heating purposes:
"If a gas stove is being used for heating, extreme caution is also required: you can be deprived of oxygen."These guidelines aim to prevent dangerous situations like fires or carbon monoxide poisoning, which become more common during extended blackouts.
Through these recommendations, the former minister seeks to raise public awareness about the risks associated with power outages, particularly given the country's severely compromised infrastructure. Adhering to these safety rules is especially crucial under the current unstable conditions, as negligence could lead to serious consequences for both citizens' health and their property.