Power Outage

Before a Power Outage

Keep flashlights and extra batteries available.

Keep portable battery banks charged.

Include lighting and a battery-powered radio in your emergency supplies.

If you depend on electrically powered medical equipment, make a backup plan and contact your utility about available programs.

Know how to manually open an electric garage door.

Install carbon-monoxide alarms.

Never wait until an outage to learn how to safely operate a generator. 

During a Power Outage

Use flashlights instead of candles when possible.

Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed.

Turn off or unplug sensitive electronics to reduce the chance of damage when power returns.

Never use a generator indoors, in a garage, or in a carport. Keep generators outdoors and away from windows and vents.

Never use charcoal grills or gas cooking equipment indoors for heat. Carbon monoxide cannot be seen or smelled and can become deadly very quickly. 

After

Wait briefly after power returns before turning on unnecessary appliances.

Check refrigerated and frozen foods for safety.

Reset alarms, clocks, and essential medical equipment.