Prepare for an Outage
Listen to weather forecasts and plan ahead. If you lose power, use flashlights. Do not use candles or kerosene lamps; they can create a safety hazard. Develop a family emergency plan that includes alternative arrangements should you need to leave your home. Make provisions for family members with special needs such as the elderly, disabled, medically affected, or infants. If you are dependent on electric-powered medical equipment, seek alternate arrangements in the event of an outage.
Have the following items ready:
Visit the FEMA Emergency Preparedness checklist for additional recommended items.
Customers with Special Needs
Customers with special needs, such as those who may be elderly, disabled or dependent on electricity for medical equipment, should have alternate arrangements in place should they experience an extended power outage. Learn more about our restoration process.
Protect Your Food
To protect your food, keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible. Food can stay frozen for 36 hours or more in a freezer if you keep the door closed. Consider freezing containers of water ahead of time and keeping them in the freezer to help your food stay frozen longer. For more information on keeping food safe during a power outage, check out USDA Food Safety: Keeping Food Safe in an Emergency.
Protect Appliances and Electronic Equipment
Many home electronics can be damaged during a power outage. Here are some ways to protect sensitive equipment:
Other Considerations for Homeowners
During Outages
Use Generators Properly
Keep Snow and Ice Clear
During a storm, keep key equipment clear of ice and snow using a broom or brush. This includes:
Repairs May Still Be In-Progress
Roads and Services May Be Impacted
Stay Safe after Flooding