14 (Photo by Cecil Shillingford) By Franklyn Michael, Supplementary Associate, CARICAD I t is safe to say that most of us are happy that technological advancements continue to bring greater comfort, convenience, speed, efficiency and effectiveness to the systems and processes that that we rely on for modern life. However, in the context of hurricane preparedness, greater reliance on technology has increased our vulnerability not only to technology but the electricity that powers technology. This means that the vast majority of us are totally dependent an uninterrupted supply of electricity for “normal” life. It is important to remember that when a storm threatens, the mains electricity supply service will most likely be turned off as a precaution to reduce the risks to life from accidental electrocution. Additionally, if there is a “direct hit” from the storm, electricity may be absent for several weeks before repairs are completed. I invite you to reflect for a moment, if we do not have mains electricity for a few days or worse, for a few weeks, then without an auxiliary supply (that the vast majority of households in the Caribbean do not have) the following appliances and devices will not work. • Household lights • Wi-Fi Router • Ceiling fans • Extractor fans • Air conditioners • Electrical stoves and ovens • Dishwashers • Microwaves • Toasters • Toaster ovens • Electrical mixers and blenders • Food processors • Juicers • Coffee makers • Refrigerators • Freezers • Washing machines • Clothes dryers • Irons • Vacuum cleaners • Plug-in air fresheners • Televisions • Plug-in radios and entertainment centres • Water pumps and sump pumps • Continues on next page
15 Publizr Home