During an outage it is important to follow any instructions you get from state and local officials. But also, follow your instincts. If it’s still stormy and dark, stay inside. If it looks dangerous, steer clear! Below are some tips to follow when the power is out.
Report Outages or Downed Line
While we do our best to stay on top of storm damage, reporting outages and downed lines will help us continue to work efficiently to restore power. Report outages or downed lines to 1-800-343-6432. Our Control Center is staffed 24/7/365.
Never Go Near Downed Power Lines
When a storm strikes, there may be hundreds of power lines on the ground or sagging low. Always assume every line is energized and dangerous. If you’re in a vehicle and downed wires are on the car or across the road, stay in your car until emergency crews arrive. Don’t touch anything that might be in contact with a downed line, like a tree limb or a vehicle.
Stay Informed
You can get updates on outages and estimated times of restoration on our Outage Map HERE, as well as our Facebook page. You can also check newspapers, radio and television stations to stay informed on the situation throughout the state.
Locate a Shelter
If your home becomes unsafe or you need resources, you can dial 2-1-1 during major storms to find the closest shelter in your area.
Stay Off the Roads
Eliminate unnecessary travel, especially by car. Traffic lights will be out, and roads may be congested. There is also the possibility of downed lines and trees, depending on the severity of the storm.
Install and Use Generators and Stoves Safely
Never use a generator, grill, camp stove or other gasoline, propane, natural gas or charcoal-burning devices inside a home, garage, basement, crawlspace or any partially enclosed area. Locate generator away from doors, windows and vents that could allow carbon monoxide to come indoors. The safest way to connect a generator is to have a licensed electrical contractor install a transfer switch. This is not only for your safety, but for the safety of our line workers as well.
NOTE: when improperly installed, home generators of any size -even “small”- can back feed enough power onto the electrical grid where it is “stepped up” to very high voltages.
Prepare for the Surge
Turn off or disconnect any appliances (like stoves), equipment or electronics you were using when the power went out. When power comes back on, surges or spikes can damage equipment or even cause fires or other hazards. Turn off and unplug all unnecessary electrical equipment. Leave one light turned on so you’ll know when the power comes back on.
Keep Food Safe
When the power is out, keeping food at a safe temperature is a key concern. Keep in mind an unopened refrigerator will keep food cold for about four hours while a full freezer will keep the temperature for about 48 hours (24 hours if it is half full). If it looks like the power outage will continue beyond a day, prepare a cooler with ice for your freezer items.