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Falcon Heights Home Guide to Emergency Preparedness

When Electrical Power is Lost

Disruption of electrical service can occur as a result of many things, including lightning, high winds, ice and heavy snow, and equipment failure. For the most part, service is normally restored within a short period. However, major power outages can happen for extended periods from time to time. When power is lost, you should:

  • Check to see if your neighbors have power. The power loss may be only in your home, due to a blown fuse or a tripped circuit. If your neighbors also are without service, call your local power company (see page 4). If you must go outside to assess the situation, take a flashlight and watch for downed power lines that could still be energized. If downed lines are located, don't go near them or touch anything that they may be in contact with. Report downed power lines immediately.
  • Use flashlights or battery-operated lanterns for lighting. Candles and kerosene lanterns are not recommended for lighting because of the inherent fire safety hazards.
  • Turn off all major appliances. When major appliances - refrigerators, electric water heaters, air conditioners and pumps - are left on, they could overload electric lines when power is restored causing a second outage.
  • Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible. Food can be kept cold for a day or two if the doors are kept closed. During the winter, you may be able to store some items outside in a proper container. If temperatures are below freezing, it's possible to freeze water outside in containers and place them inside your refrigerator to help keep food cold. Try to consume perishable foods first. When in doubt, throw it out.
  • Use portable generators cautiously. They can be used to provide limited electrical power during an outage. But, take care to ensure that they do not pose a threat to you and your family. Never fuel or run a portable generator in the home or garage, as gas-powered generators pose a serious fire and carbon monoxide threat. Generators should be installed in compliance with your local power company's guidelines. Always operate according to the manufacturer's instructions. For additional information on the proper use of emergency generators, call your power company.
  • Be aware that gas appliances may not work if the electricity is off because the equipment may require electricity for ignition or valve operation.
  • Drain pumps, supply lines, water heaters, boilers and traps in drains of tubs, sinks, commodes, washing machines and dishwashers. Plumbing can freeze when power is lost during cold weather periods. To avoid major flooding when temperatures rise, turn off supply lines to outside spigots. Water heaters that are drained to prevent damage from freezing must have their power circuits shut off as well. Failure to do so could result in loss of the heating element when power is restored. Never turn on a water heater unless the tank is full.
  • List life support equipment required for family members who depend on these devices (respirators, ventilators, oxygen equipment or other life-sustaining devices) with the power company. You should have a contingency plan that always includes an alternate power source for the device and relocating the person.

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