Tips for Power Outages

Most power outages will be over almost as soon as they begin, but some can last much longer – up to days or even weeks. Power outages can be life threatening especially during cold weather.

Preparing for a power outage

• Make emergency light sources (flashlights, batteries, glow sticks) accessible and known to all household members.
• Install surge protectors to safeguard sensitive electronic equipment .
• Camping equipment is useful (portable stoves and lamps) but only use these items outside. Any liquid fuels and propane should be stored in a garage or shed separated from the house.
• Make sure your Emergency Kit is stocked including a first aid kit, energy bars, canned food (and a manual opener), bottled water, flashlights with extra batteries, and a battery operated or crank radio.
• Make sure you know how to shut off gas, water and electric supplies at the source within your house.

During a power outage

• Turn off all major non-essential appliances.
• Unplug sensitive electronic equipment.
• If leaving your house during an outage, unplug all heat-producing appliances.
• Turn off all lights except for one light for notification when power does resume.
• Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed to preserve food. The refrigerator will keep food cool for four to six hours depending on the kitchen temperature.
• Never leave burning candles unattended.
• Don’t use the following inside your home: barbeque or camp grills, gasoline engines, generators, lanterns and gas ranges. Using these indoors can lead to a build-up of carbon monoxide and other poisonous gases in the home.
• Check on neighbours including those that are vulnerable.