April 28, 2025. A massive blackout hit the entire Iberian Peninsula: Spain, Portugal, and even parts of southern France. For most people, it was just an inconvenience. But for those of us who rely on electrical devices to breathe, move, or communicate, it was something else entirely: a brutal reminder of how fragile everything can be.
And then on July 24, a strong thunderstorm caused power outages across several areas in Barcelona. Not as widespread as in April, but enough to bring the issue back into focus. Because blackouts aren’t rare. And their consequences for people who rely on electricity to live shouldn’t catch anyone off guard.
Breathing shouldn’t depend on luck
I lived it firsthand. For several hours, the power was gone. And with it, my ventilator, my adjustable bed, my communication system. Everything stopped. That feeling of vulnerability doesn’t go away. Because when your life depends on electricity, you’re not just waiting for power to come back, you’re hoping it comes back in time.
Most people don’t know that you can go to the hospital in these situations. But what if there’s no ambulance available? What if the entire city is affected? What if you simply don’t make it?
It’s not just the system’s responsibility
Yes, public services should be prepared for emergencies. But we can’t leave everything up to the system. Because in the end, the person left without a ventilator… is you.
If you depend on electric devices to stay alive, you need a backup plan. Not someday. Today.
How to stay safe during a blackout if you depend on a ventilator or other medical devices
Here are a few things you can put in place to be better prepared for future power outages. They won’t eliminate the risk, but they might give you something essential: time, autonomy, and peace of mind.
- Install a power inverter with backup battery
These devices allow you to keep essential equipment running during a blackout. Some models are affordable and easy to set up, offering several hours of autonomy. - Consider a small solar power system
You don’t need a roof full of panels. There are now solar kits with built-in batteries that can keep critical devices running at a reasonable cost. - Register with your local hospital or health center
Some regions allow you to register as an electricity-dependent patient, so your needs are prioritized during emergencies. Ask if this protocol exists in your area. - Run emergency drills
Make sure your backup system works. Don’t wait for a blackout to find out the battery doesn’t charge or the inverter can’t handle your devices. Practicing can save lives.
We can’t stop blackouts, but we can be ready
This post isn’t about fear, it’s about awareness. About knowing that true autonomy also comes from planning. Being prepared isn’t alarmist. It’s about dignity.
Because when your life depends on electricity, having a backup plan isn’t a luxury. It’s a way of taking care of yourself.
