Power Outage Safety Tips

TERMS TO KNOW

Blackout: Equipment failure which occurs when the supply of power is cut, either by excessive demand on the power grid, lightning storms, ice on power lines, equipment failure or any accident which brings down a power line.

Rolling Blackout: Occurs when electrical power is turned off to selected areas to save power. Blackouts usually occur between 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m., but they can happen any time. Blackouts may affect the same area more than once a day and they may exceed an hour’s duration.

BE PREPARED!

1. At home or at work, keep a battery operated radio and flashlight on hand, as well as a supply of batteries.

2. Keep an emergency supply of water, medications and non-perishable foods handy. If you use medication that requires refrigeration, most can be kept in a closed refrigerator for several hours without a problem. Check with your doctor r pharmacist.

3. if you have space in your refrigerator or freezer consider filling a plastic container with water, leaving an inch of space inside each one, this will help keep food cold if the power goes out.

4. Have a list of emergency numbers readily available.

5. Keep your vehicle at least half-full.

6. Plan to have an alternative cooking source, such as a camp stove or outdoor grill. Follow the rules for using it outside the residence.

7. Consider buying a generator and follow the rules for using it outside the residence. Before installing a generator, be sure to properly disconnect from utility electrical service.

8. Have extra blankets, coats, hats and gloves on hand to keep warm.

9. If you have an electric garage door opener, locate the emergency release lever.

10. If you have a telephone or system that requires electricity to work, plan for alternative communication such as a standard telephone handset, cellular telephone or radio.

PEOPLE WITH SPECIAL NEEDS

If someone you know is elderly or dependant on life-sustaining or health-related equipment (i.e., ventilators, respirators, oxygen concentrators or enhancers) help plan to make sure their needs are met by taking the following actions:

Register them as a special needs customer with their utility so they will become a priority customer.

Notify others that could provide help such as fire department, neighbors, nearby friends or relatives.

Have a list of emergency numbers readily available.

Have a standby generator or alternative source of power available. Be aware of the safety rules for its use.