Tips During a Power Outage
- If the service wires are damaged or on the ground, stay at least 10 meters back and notify the electric company.
- If there is damage to your power mast, you will need a certified electrician to make repairs.
- Turn off all tools, appliances and electronic equipment. Turn your thermostats down to minimum to prevent damage from a power surge when the power is restored. In addition, power can be restored more easily when there is not a heavy load on the electrical system.
- Turn off all lights, except one inside and one outside, so that both you and hydro crews outside know that power has been restored.
- Don’t open your freezer or fridge unless it is absolutely necessary. A full freezer will keep food frozen for 24 – 36 hours if the door remains closed.
- Never use charcoal or gas BBQ’s, camping heating equipment, or home generators indoors. They give off carbon monoxide. Because you can’t smell or see it, carbon monoxide can cause health problems and is life-threatening.
- Use proper candles holders. Never leave a lit candle unattended and keep out of reach of children. Always extinguish candles before going to bed.
- Listen to your battery-powered or crank radio for information on the outage and advice from authorities.
- Make sure your home has a working carbon monoxide detector. If it is hard-wired to the house’s electrical supply, ensure it has a battery-powered back-up.
- Protect sensitive electrical appliances such as TV’s, computer and DVD players with a surge-protecting power bar.
