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1. Portable power bank (for phones, tablets & small devices)
Having a high-capacity power bank is essential when electricity goes out. It keeps your phone, tablet or even a mobile WiFi hotspot running so you stay connected and safe.
2. LED lantern or rechargeable LED light
Candles are a fallback — but they’re risky and inconvenient. A rechargeable LED lantern or light gives bright, safe illumination and lasts longer. Useful whether it’s nighttime or during heavy storms.
3. Portable fan / rechargeable fan
Guyana gets hot and humid — especially when there’s no power. A small rechargeable or battery-powered fan can help you stay cool and comfortable under blackout conditions.
4. Multi-port surge protector / power strip with surge protection
When power returns after an outage, surges can damage electronics. A good surge-protected power strip helps protect phones, computers, TVs or modems from voltage spikes.
5. Solar-powered or solar-ready portable power station / generator
For recurring or extended outages, a more robust solution helps. A portable power station (or a solar-ready generator) can run small appliances, lights, fans — even a fridge — until power’s restored.
6. Rechargeable flashlight / emergency flashlight
Quick power cuts at night call for reliable, portable light. A rechargeable flashlight ensures you aren’t fumbling in the dark.
7. Emergency radio (battery or solar powered)
When outages coincide with storms — with possible loss of internet or mobile coverage — a battery or solar-powered radio helps you keep informed via news or weather broadcasts.
8. Extra batteries + battery storage
Flashlights, radios, fans (if battery-powered) — many devices rely on replaceable batteries. Stocking multiple AA/AAA (or others) ensures you’re not caught off guard.
9. Non-perishable food & manual can opener
If outage lasts a while, fridge doesn’t run, and you can’t cook with electric stove: shelf-stable food (canned goods, dry foods) + a manual can opener becomes essential.
10. Water storage & reusable water containers
Frequent power outages sometimes affect water pumps. Having bottled water or reusable containers filled in advance ensures you have clean water for drinking, cooking or cleaning.
11. Power-efficient small appliances (low wattage)
Small appliances like fans, LED lights, or battery-powered devices that draw little electricity will be more sustainable on backup power or small generators.
12. Battery-powered or solar-powered phone charger (for emergencies)
Especially useful if your main power bank runs out. Having a small backup charger — maybe one that charges via solar or small battery cell — keeps phones alive for communication or news updates.
13. Cooler / ice chest (for food preservation during long outages)
If your fridge’s off for hours, a cooler with ice packs helps preserve perishables a bit longer — useful in tropical climates where spoilage happens fast.
14. Basic tool kit + matches/lighter (for emergencies)
If outages are combined with storms or storms’ aftermath, having simple tools, lighters or matches can help in cooking (if using gas stove), fixing small problems, or staying safe in low light.
15. Small budget-friendly backup generator or inverter (if possible)
If power outages are frequent, investing in a small generator or inverter — ideally dual-fuel or solar capable — can safeguard your home’s essentials (lights, fridge, fan, etc.) during long blackouts.
Why This Matters for Guyanese Homes
In Guyana, power outages especially during storms or unstable supply periods are not uncommon. Having multi-layered backup solutions (from simple LED lights to full power banks or small generators) helps you stay prepared.
Outages often mean loss of refrigeration, so food spoilage is real. Stocking non-perishables and having coolers or methods to preserve food helps avoid waste and ensures basic needs are met.
Communication (phones, internet) can be critical. A charged power bank or even a solar-ready backup ensures you can stay informed, reach family, or access important services during an outage.
Heat and humidity during blackouts can be uncomfortable or dangerous small rechargeable fans, LED lights, and coolers can improve comfort and safety significantly.
What to Watch Out For: Smart Black Friday Shopping Tips
Check product specs carefully — For power banks or portable power stations: battery capacity, output ports (USB, AC, DC), and whether they allow AC output if you plan to run fans or small appliances.
Surge protection matters — After a blackout, power surges can damage electronics. Items like surge-protecting power strips or UPS-style backups are worth the extra few dollars.
Prioritize versatility — Items that serve during regular days and emergencies (e.g. rechargeable lanterns, multi-port banks, solar-ready gadgets) give the best bang for your buck.
Stock basics before high-tech gear — Candles, batteries, non-perishables, water containers — those everyday things plus simple tools — are usually more critical than expensive gadgets when outages strike.
Consider local availability and shipping — If you order from Amazon, check shipping time and cost to Guyana. In some cases, local hardware stores (in Georgetown or elsewhere) may be faster or cheaper.
