When Electrical Power is Lost

Disruption of electrical service can occur as a result of many things, including lightning, high winds, ice, heavy snow, and equipment failure. For the most part, service is normally restored within a short period. However, major power outages can happen for extended periods of time.

• Check to see if your neighbors have power. The power loss may be only in your home, due to a blown fuse or a tripped circuit. If your neighbors also are without service, call your local power company. If you must go outside to assess the situation, take a flashlight and watch for downed power lines that could still be energized. If downed lines are located, do not go near them or touch them but, report downed power lines immediately.
• Use flashlights or battery-operated lanterns for lighting. Candles and kerosene lanterns are not recommended for lighting because of fire hazards.
• Turn off all major appliances. When major appliances such as refrigerators, electric water heaters, air conditioners and pumps are left on, they could overload electric lines when power is restored, causing a second outage.
• Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible. Food can be kept cold for a day or two if the doors are kept closed. During the winter, you may be able to store some items outside in a proper container. If temperatures are below freezing, it is possible to freeze water outside in containers and place them inside your refrigerator to help keep food cold. Try to consume perishable foods first. When in doubt, throw it out.
• Use portable generators cautiously. They can be used to provide limited electrical power during an outage. Take care to ensure that they do not pose a threat to you and your family. Never fuel or run a portable generator in the home or garage, as gas-powered generators pose a serious fire and carbon monoxide threat. Generators should be installed in compliance with your local power company’s guidelines. Always operate according to the manufacturer’s instructions. For additional information on the proper use of emergency generators, call your power company.
• If you depend on a well for your water supply, be prepared to use alternate sources of water until power is restored. These systems normally use electric pumps which may not operate when the power is out.
• Be aware that gas appliances may not work if the electricity is off because the equipment may require electricity for ignition or valve operation.
• Drain pumps, supply lines, water heaters, boilers and traps in drains of tubs, sinks, commodes, washing machines and dishwashers. Plumbing can freeze when power is lost during cold weather periods. To avoid major flooding when temperatures rise, turn off supply lines to outside spigots. Water heaters that are drained to prevent damage from freezing must have their power circuits shut off as well. Failure to do so could result in loss of the heating element when power is restored. Never turn on a water heater unless the tank is full.
• You should have a contingency plan that lists life support equipment required for family members who depend on these devices (respirators, ventilators, oxygen equipment or other life-sustaining devices). Always include an alternate power source for emergency support equipment.

• Select a single room in the home in which the entire family can live – ideally a room that gets sunlight during daylight hours. Use fireplaces and wood-burning stoves with care, and always supervise them when burning. Make sure the fireplace is in proper working condition and has been inspected regularly. Never use charcoal as an indoor heat source; charcoal produces deadly carbon monoxide gas. Wear layers of clothing, including sweaters and coats, which hold warm air and help to maintain body heat for longer periods. For homes with natural gas heaters, keep meters and vents clear of ice and snow.