What Happens When There’s a Power Outage

Power outages can happen quite often due to bad storms, freezing rain or high winds. The damage to power lines and equipment are often the reason for the outage, but you can help prevent an outage by being prepared.

Preparation for an Outage

•  To prepare your home for a potential power outage you can have on hand small non-electric stove, such as a propane camping stove, or portable propane heater. These are not dependent on any electrical charge and can function alone.
•  If you have a wood-burning fireplace, be sure to have the chimney cleaned every fall to eliminate build-up to prevent a chimney fire.
• Before using an emergency generator, propane stoves or heaters during a power outage, ensure proper operating procedures are followed as these devices emit carbon monoxide, which can cause severe health problems.

During an Outage

• Be sure the outage has affected more than just your home. If your neighbor’s power is still on, check your circuit breaker or fuse box to fix the issue.
• Contact the utility, not your retail energy supplier. They don’t have control over power outages or repairs.
• Turn off appliances, electric equipment, and turn the thermostat down to a minimum to prevent a power surge from occurring when the power does restore.
• Try not to open your freezer or fridge unless necessary. A freezer will keep food frozen from 24 to 36 hours if the door remains close.

Following these simple guidelines can ensure your safety to prepare and stay safe during a power outage.

Source: getprepared.gc.ca

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