Infrastructure breakdowns happen regularly: How to be ready

If you have ever experienced a train cancellation, an internet outage, or a power cut, you’re already familiar with infrastructure breakdowns on a smaller scale. While these incidents are often inconvenient, they are fairly commonplace in our modern society. Being ready is important for both frequent, small-scale incidents, and less frequent but potentially more impactful large-scale breakdowns.

This guide aims to help you understand and be ready for various types of infrastructure breakdowns, including communication, healthcare, transportation, energy, and water and sanitation.

Energy infrastructure breakdown: Have an emergency kit ready

Energy infrastructure refers to the collective resources, technology, and facilities involved in the production and distribution of energy. This includes power plants, transmission lines, and energy storage facilities, among other components. Common causes of energy infrastructure breakdowns can range from extreme weather events to grid overloading or power surges.

It’s essential to be ready for power outages. Having an emergency kit for energy breakdowns on hand can make the difference between a minor inconvenience and a significant issue. This kit can include items such as torches, batteries, portable chargers, and blankets.

Moreover, knowing how to conserve energy can also prevent or mitigate the impacts of a breakdown. Energy conservation strategies can be as simple as turning off and unplugging non-essential appliances, adjusting the thermostat, or using natural light during the day.

In terms of backup solutions to generate power during an energy breakdown, consider investing in a generator, battery packs, or solar panels. Remember, it’s important to understand how to safely operate these devices before an emergency situation arises.

Communication breakdown: Ensure you can stay connected

Infrastructure for communication is the backbone of modern society and includes everything from mobile networks and internet services to traditional landline phones. Communication breakdowns can be triggered by various events, including natural disasters, cyberattacks, or even energy breakdowns themselves.

Preparing for these situations involves several strategies. One possible strategy is to have a backup plan, such as a landline phone or radio communication backup, which can operate independently of internet or mobile networks. It’s also worthwhile researching internet alternatives, such as satellite internet, which can provide connectivity even when traditional providers fail.

To get ready for a communication breakdown, develop a plan with your family or close contacts that doesn’t rely solely on digital communication. This could include establishing a safe meeting place or a system of physical signals.

Water & sanitation breakdown: Keeping hydrated

The water and sanitation infrastructure is a complex system that provides clean water and sanitation services to our homes. However, this infrastructure can break down due to weather events, pollution, or changes in government policies.

In cases of contamination, water purification methods such as boiling or using purification tablets can be useful. An emergency kit for water/sanitation breakdowns might include these items, along with bottled water and portable sanitation facilities.

It’s important to have a plan for safe waste disposal during sanitation failure to prevent the spread of disease. In case the water supply becomes unavailable, knowing how to source from alternative water supplies, such as a local stream or rainwater collection system, can become a lifesaver.

Transportation breakdown: Make a plan to keep moving

From personal vehicles and public buses to trains and planes, our transportation infrastructure is a vast network that keeps society moving. Breakdowns can be caused by extreme weather, disasters, energy failures, large-scale industrial action, or even large-scale public events.

Being ready for a transportation breakdown involves having contingency plans in place. This might include knowing alternative transportation methods, such as cycling, walking, or carpooling. Familiarise yourself with different routes to your destination too.

Finally, keep an emergency kit in your vehicle, including items maps, a spare tyre, and a first aid kit, and ensure you have breakdown cover in place.

Healthcare breakdown: How to reduce impact to your health

The healthcare infrastructure comprises hospitals, clinics, pharmacies, and other healthcare facilities, as well as personnel who keep these services running. Breakdowns can be caused by disasters, funding cuts, or large-scale industrial action.

Being ready for a healthcare breakdown can be a matter of life and death. Proactive healthcare, such as regular check-ups and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, can reduce the likelihood of needing emergency care.

In the event of a healthcare breakdown, those with chronic conditions should have a plan for managing their condition. This may include having a supply of essential medications and understanding how to self-manage their condition to some extent. It’s also useful to have a basic understanding of first aid and a well-stocked first aid kit.

Practical readiness means you can carry on during an infrastructure breakdown

Remember, being ready is key when it comes to mitigating the impacts of any infrastructure crisis. Being informed and having a plan make a significant difference when these things occur.