I wanted to take a minute to address some current events. A lot of my clients have been asking me about all of the buzz surrounding the reports of governments warning people to prepare for power outages and to stockpile food. I know that any time that something like this happens that people tend to immediately think the worst, and I understand why.
Despite the rumor mill, a lot of what is being spread is the social media hype by influencers trying to cash in on their opportunity to sell products, or to latch onto any topic in order to get views. Despite the gossip, our government hasn't actually issued any kind of statement or advisory suggesting that we need to prepare for anything. The news media is reporting that other countries around the world (mostly Europe and Asia) have issued statements to its people.
Here is the reason that I feel this is happening. Right now there is a cyber attack on refrigerated units which are connected to the internet. This is mostly happening in the UK, France, and across Europe. There was an instance reported with some units at US military bases as well. At this time the attacker is unknown, and the discovery of the vulnerability has people scrambling to be ready in case it happens to them. What is being reported is that the hacker('s) are turning temps up or causing units to fail through some other method.
I believe that because of this governments are warning people to be ready to handle a situation in which their local grocery store may be out of fresh foods, leading to panic buying of canned goods and shelf stable items. This is a similar scenario to how people react to news of hurricanes, blizzards, and other major weather events.
When the lights go out, it’s natural to feel unsettled. Power outages can interrupt communication, heating or cooling, transportation, and the routines that help us feel secure. And when reports of disruptions arrive from around the world, it can be hard not to wonder what might happen next. Please remember an outage is stressful, but a few calm, practical steps can make a real difference. You all know that I live in a high risk Tornado zone in the country and because of these I like to stay ready to handle any situation that might arise. From time to time I recommend to people that they take steps to be ready for any disaster that could arise. Not limited to world events or emergencies, but for anything that could happen.
Start with what you can control. Keep a flashlight and spare batteries somewhere easy to find, charge phones and power banks when possible, and store drinking water and a modest supply of food that doesn’t require cooking. If you rely on refrigerated medicines, powered medical equipment, or other essential devices, ask your healthcare provider or local emergency service about a backup plan before you need one. Write down important phone numbers, and agree on a simple way to check in with family or neighbors if mobile networks are disrupted. Make sure you have some board games or card games on hand, something to keep yourself and the family occupied while you are waiting for the power to come back on.
During an outage, use battery-powered lights or candles when you can. Keep refrigerators and freezers closed, follow local instructions, and never run a generator, barbecue, or fuel-burning heater indoors or near windows as carbon monoxide can be deadly and has no smell. If someone in your household depends on electricity for health or safety, contact emergency services or your utility promptly if their backup power becomes uncertain. Check on older neighbors and anyone who may need extra help, while taking care not to put yourself at risk.
Preparedness is not about expecting the worst or trying to stockpile everything. It is about making ordinary, sensible arrangements that give you more choices when circumstances are uncertain. Begin with one small task today, build from there at a pace that feels manageable. Share reliable information, be cautious with alarming or unverified claims, and look to local authorities and utility providers for guidance specific to your area. Above all else don't panic.
We cannot control every disruption, but we can meet uncertainty with preparation, kindness, and steadiness. A charged phone, a safe light, a written plan, and a neighbor who knows you’re there may seem like small things. Together, they can offer real reassurance. Be prepared not scared.
