Power Outage

Power outages can occur at any time and can pose serious problems, particularly for those using life-sustaining equipment.

• Keep a flashlight, battery-operated weather radio, and other emergency supplies handy.

• Do not use candles; they are a fire hazard.

• Maintain a list of utility company phone numbers and websites.

• Check the fuse/breaker box to see if there is a blown fuse or a tripped circuit breaker.

• If you determine a fuse/breaker box needs to be replaced/reset, turn off or unplug appliances before doing so to avoid damage to the electrical system.

• Check your neighborhood to see if others are without power.

• Call to report the power outage. Call only once to keep the line open for other customers.

• Check your refrigerator to ensure food does not go bad and cause food-related illnesses.

• Discard any food in your freezer that is over 40 degrees.

• If you rely on electric medical equipment, such as wheelchairs, ventilators, and oxygen compressors, plan ahead by talking to your medical supply company about getting batteries or a generator as a back-up power source.

• Power Outage – American Red Cross
• Food Safety in Power Outages - American Red Cross
• How to Prepare for and Handle Power Outages for Medical Devices that Require Electricity
• ​​​Be Prepared for a Power Outage - Federal Emergency Management Agency