Power outages can happen at any time, during stormy conditions. This winter in the Pacific Northwest windstorms with gusts over 100 kph blew over trees and power lines, most famously in scenic Stanley Park (a tree telethon was held). The sturdiest of cedars were pushed down like seedlings, damaging roofs, roads, and disrupting power frequently.

Weather has been odd and emergency power outages are perhaps growing more common from storms. Psychologists from Victoria, BC offer some perspective as trees continue to fall and stress rises.

“It can be interesting when you don’t have access to a television or a computer and you have to get back to the basics.” [said Stephen Lustig]

Sitting by the fire talking, playing board games or reading by candlelight can be fun, he said.

However, even planned family camping trips may pall after a few days, Lustig conceded.

One key to surviving a blackout is to get outside and not feel trapped in the house, he said.

“Especially in a place like Victoria, where it can be dark and dreary, people should get out, get some fresh air and walk around,” Lustig said.

Psychologist Janice Martinez said candlelight and silence during power cuts can be wonderful, and people should try and take advantage of the good things.

And as we know, the birth rate spikes nine months after a blackout. [Correction - Turns out that's an urban myth, according to Snopes. Read the last paragraph, heh.]

Read more.
72 hours.org emergency preparedness.

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    Last reviewed: By John M. Grohol, Psy.D. on 14 Jan 2007
    Published on PsychCentral.com. All rights reserved.