Print and keep this information handy.
Find a flashlight.
Check the circuit breaker panel or fuse box. If necessary,
replace fuses, with the same size only, or reset breakers.
If you aren't sure what to do, call an electrician.
If everything is okay in the circuit breaker panel or fuse box,
check to see if the power is out in your neighborhood.
Call your local power company:
Try to have your account number (It's on your bill) with you.
This number helps them help you to get your lights back
on quickly.
Turn off all of your lights, except one to signal you when
the power comes back on.
Turn off appliances such as garage door openers, VCRs,
microwaves, TVs, computers, etc. Don't turn off your fridge
and freezer. (You might forget to turn them back on.)
If you smell gas - do not use matches or flip switches -
including flashlight switches
Make an emergency kit and know where it is.
Emergency Kit Supplies:
Important telephone numbers, like Utility Company's
Phone Number:
flashlight
batteries
battery powered radio
if you have a fireplace, keep firewood handy
If you have a generator, make sure it's ready to use.
non-perishable food
matches and candles
warm clothes and blankets
medications you need
bottled water
Helpful Tips:
Turn your refrigerator and freezer to the coldest settings if
you think an outage could occur. This will help keep the
food cold longer.
Have blankets or cardboard handy to cover windows in the
event that the heat goes out. This will help prevent drafts
Identify the most insulated room in advance; that's where
you and your family can gather if you need to stay warm.
If you do have a power outage and want to try to save your
food, put perishables like milk, cheese, pork, poultry and
meat in the freezer to help keep them fresh. They spoil
quickly at temperatures above 40 degrees F.
Cover the freezer with a blanket to help keep the cold air in.
