During A Power Failure

In the case of a power outage, it is usually best to assume the worst and prepare for an extended blackout. You never know how long it will take the local utility company to get the power up and running again.

The first thing you should do is to shut off most of the electrical devices that were running before the power went out. This will not only make it easier for the power to be restored to the grid, but it will also save you from running around the house turning all the extra lights off after the power is restored. It will also avoid possible damage to appliances from either inadequate power or a sudden electrical surge when the power is restored. Leave at least one lamp and one radio on to alert you when the power has been restored.

When the power goes out suddenly, decide whether the outage is just at your home, or if it affects the entire neighborhood. If it is a neighborhood outage, you should notify your utility company. If your house is the only affected area, check for and reset any tripped circuit breakers. If a breaker trips again immediately, contact a professional electrician to test your system.

If you have water pressure, fill containers for drinking and bathing, including the bathtub. If you have a private well system, save the water in the pressurized tank for drinking only- you will be unable to draw additional water until the power is restored.

It is a good idea to keep the refrigerator and freezer doors shut until the power returns, to retard food spoilage. Food in a tightly packed freezer will stay frozen for up to 48 hours, if the door has been kept closed; a partially filled freezer will keep food for up to 24 hours. If there is any doubt about the safety of frozen food following a power outage, throw it out.

Always keep a ready supply of flashlights, extra batteries, candles, and matches. If any of these items are used for other purposes, make sure to replace them immediately, in case you need to use them in an emergency. It is also a good idea to have a battery-powered transistor radio on hand.

If your main source of heat is electricity, use your fireplace or wood stove, if you have one. You do not want to use a gas oven, un-vented kerosene heater, or outdoor cooker for emergency heat, as they create toxic fumes.

If you use a generator for power, be sure not to overload it. Use extension cords that are rated to handle the amperage draw of the item that you are powering. Remember, the thicker the cord and the lower its gauge rating, the better.

If the generator is connected directly to the house wiring, disconnect your house from the grid by turning off the main breaker or by removing the main fuse. By disconnecting your home, you protect utility workers who are doing repairs from being shocked by power from your generator.

Once the power has been restored, you are safe to turn on all of your appliances again. If flooding has occurred in your basement or elsewhere in your home, do not enter the water unless the main electrical switch has been thrown and all power in the house is cut off. Water an excellent conductor of electricity, and anyone standing in water is in danger of being electrocuted.