Top budget gadgets that will save you during blackouts: how to prepare for a new wave of attacks on the power grid

The occupier is once again attacking Ukraine's energy infrastructure, increasing the risk of blackouts in cities and regions. To avoid being left without light, heat, and communication, it is worth preparing in advance and having simple and affordable gadgets on hand that will help you get through power outages comfortably. Find out what items you should definitely have at home and how to prepare for possible power instability

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Russia has once again launched massive attacks on Ukraine's energy infrastructure. Today, October 11, the occupiers struck thermal power plants and substations in various regions, leaving part of the country without power. According to energy experts, this is only the beginning of a new campaign of terror aimed at destabilizing the situation on the eve of winter.

President Volodymyr Zelensky recently stated that russia is deliberately waiting for the weather to worsen in order to strike energy facilities when the load on the system increases. The goal is obvious — to leave Ukrainians without heat, light, and communication.

Despite this, the energy system remains stable, but the risks of new blackouts are very high. Therefore, Ukrainians are advised to prepare now — to have a basic set of devices at home that will help them survive possible blackouts in comfort.

How can Ukrainians prepare for winter without electricity?

In particular, dev.ua shared a list of budget gadgets that will help survive new blackouts in Ukraine. Among them:

1. Voltage relay — protection against power surges

When electricity is supplied after power outages or accidents, the voltage often “jumps.” A voltage relay instantly cuts off the power supply in case of dangerous fluctuations — it protects household appliances from burning out.

You can install it yourself or with the help of an electrician in half an hour.

💰 Price: about 1,500 UAH — much cheaper than repairing a refrigerator or washing machine.

2. UPS for a router — internet even during outages

Without the internet, it is difficult to work, study, or stay in touch. A UPS (uninterruptible power supply) for a router instantly turns on the power when the lights go out. The internet continues to work for up to 6–8 hours, and after the power is restored, the device charges the battery itself.

💰 Price: from 1,000 to 2,000 UAH.

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3. UPS for a PC — so you don't lose anything important

Uninterruptible power supplies for computers allow you to save documents and safely shut down your PC during a sudden power outage.

A 500 W model is suitable for an office PC, and a 1,000 W model or higher is suitable for a gaming PC. A power reserve of 20–30% is recommended.

💰 Price: 7,000–10,000 UAH.

4. Push-button phone — communication that holds its charge

During prolonged blackouts, smartphones run out of power in a few hours. A push-button phone is a proven solution: it can work for 3–5 days without recharging.

Modern models have USB connectors, so they can even be charged from a power bank.

💰 Price: 1,500–5,000 UAH.

5. Thermos — a source of warmth and comfort

When there is no light, hot tea or coffee is a real luxury. A good thermos keeps heat for up to 12 hours, and some even for a day. There are also thermoses for food that will help keep your lunch hot.

💰 Price: from $35, optimal volume — 2 liters.

6. Fire extinguisher — safety first

With generators, batteries, and power banks appearing in homes, the risk of fire is increasing. Therefore, a fire extinguisher is a must-have in every home.

The State Emergency Service recommends carbon dioxide models, which are safe for electrical appliances. Powder extinguishers are better for extinguishing fabrics and furniture.

💰 Price: 1,200–2,500 UAH.

7. Flashlights and batteries — light in the dark

The simplest and most necessary gadget during blackouts. It is worth having several flashlights: pocket, table, and camping. Battery-powered LED garlands will create comfort and minimal lighting.

Don't forget to check your battery supply (AA, AAA, “tablets”) and recycle used ones.

💰 Price: from 80 to 3,000 UAH, depending on the model.

Planning a trip to Ukraine? Keep in mind that shelling of infrastructure may cause temporary power and communication outages. We advise tourists to carry a power bank, flashlight, and downloaded offline maps.

Despite the preservation of safe regions for travel, the risk of new attacks and power outages remains. Therefore, all foreign guests are advised to take out a war risk insurance policy before traveling to Ukraine. Such a policy covers unforeseen situations related to military actions, helps to obtain medical assistance, and provides financial protection during emergencies.

You can purchase insurance online on the Visit Ukraine platform — quickly and with coverage valid throughout the country.

Reminder! Medical insurance remains an essential requirement for entry to Ukraine in 2025. We have already explained how to choose a policy, the types of coverage available, and how to purchase insurance online.

Photo: UNIAN

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