Your fibre broadband connection won't work in the event of a power cut – as the network equipment in your home requires power. This means that during a power outage you won't be able to contact emergency 111 services unless you have back-up systems.
One option is to purchase an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) battery unit as a backup in case of a power cut. A UPS is available from most major electronics retailers.
Another option is to ensure you have a charged mobile phone as a backup or purchase a portable power bank and keep it charged in an easy-to-find place.
Back-up phone
If you have a mobile phone, this will still work if the power goes out so keep it charged and in a handy place, just in case.
Speak to your internet service provider if you do not have a mobile phone (or if there are issues with mobile connection at your address). Your provider may recommend an independent power source for emergencies, such as a battery back-up for your landline.
Landline providers are required by law to ensure that vulnerable consumers can contact 111 in a power cut. Speak to your internet service provider if you think that’s you, or someone else at your address may have an increased reliance on 111.
Ask about a wireless alarm communicator
If you have an alarm and want to ensure it works in a power cut, ask your alarm provider about getting a wireless alarm communicator installed. This device simulates a landline using your fibre connection and/or can switch to a mobile network if no landline is available in the event of a power cut.
Alarms
If you have a medical or home alarm operating over the Chorus copper network, here’s what you need to do to keep them connected when you upgrade to fibre.
- Let your internet service provider know
When you place your fibre order with your internet service provider, be sure to let them know you have a monitored home security or medical alarm that relies on a copper connection so we can take the right steps to keep them fully operational when you switch to fibre.
- Get in touch with your alarm provider
Once you’ve ordered fibre, get in touch with your alarm provider to see if your alarm will be compatible with your new fibre broadband service. If you’re upgrading your alarm, it’s a good idea to get it set up and ready to go before you get connected to fibre to minimise any interruptions during the switchover on the day your fibre’s installed.
Many modern alarms will allow you to change connection type and will already have the functionality to do this built in. Older alarms may require an additional IP module to make it compatible, these cost around $200-$250 and can be supplied by security or alarm companies.