Otis Singleton
If you experience a power outage, it is important to know who to call to get your electricity turned back on. The first step is to report the power outage to your utility company, which can be done by calling a number such as 105 in the UK or texting or calling a specific number in the US, depending on your provider. You can also call your electricity provider directly, such as PG&E in the US, or check your electrical panel for any issues. To avoid damage to your appliances and electronics, you should unplug or turn them off during a power outage. It is also important to prioritize safety by avoiding contact with downed power lines and using generators or alternative heat sources with caution.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| When to call | When the power is out |
| Who to call | Utility company, TDSP (Transmission & Distribution Service Providers), EDU (Electric Distribution Utilities), TDU (Transmission and Distribution Utility) or your distribution network operator |
| What to do before calling | Check if your neighbours are facing similar issues |
| Check your main electric panel to see if a breaker tripped | |
| Disconnect anything on the circuit before flipping the breaker back on | |
| If the problem persists, call an electrician | |
| If you see a downed power line, call 9-1-1 to report its location | |
| If you see a downed power line, call PG&E at 1-800-743-5002 | |
| If you are in a deregulated energy market, call your licensed Retail Electric Provider | |
| If you are in New Jersey, text OUT to 4PSEG (47734) or call 1-800-436-PSEG (7734) | |
| If you are in the UK, call 105 | |
| If you are a customer of Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, call Monday-Friday: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. |
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What You'll Learn
Report a power outage to your utility company
When the power goes out, there are a few important steps to take to ensure your safety and that of your appliances and electronics. Firstly, check your main electric panel to see if a breaker has tripped. If this is the case, disconnect anything on that circuit before flipping the breaker back on. If you frequently trip the same circuit breaker, consider calling an electrician.
Next, you should report the power outage to your utility company. In a deregulated energy market, you may purchase electricity from licensed Retail Electric Providers (REPs). You can find the relevant Transmission and Distribution Service Provider (TDSP), Electric Distribution Utility (EDU), or Transmission and Distribution Utility (TDU) for your area by searching for your local utility company. They are responsible for generating and distributing electricity in your area.
You can report the power outage in several ways, depending on your utility company's options. Some companies allow you to report outages by sending a text message to a designated number, using their website or mobile app, or by calling their customer service line. It is important to note that speaking to a customer service representative may not expedite the restoration of power. Utility companies often prioritize repairs based on factors such as the impact on main power lines and the number of customers affected.
Additionally, it is crucial to take precautions to protect your appliances and electronics during a power outage. Whether the power is out for a few minutes or several days, there is a risk of damage. Turn off or unplug all appliances to safeguard them from power surges or fluctuations. If you are using a generator, operate it outside your home, and connect appliances directly to it rather than wiring it to your breaker fuse box to avoid creating hazards for restoration crews.
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Call 911 for downed power lines
If you encounter a downed power line, it is important to remain calm and take the following steps to ensure your safety and that of others. Firstly, always assume that the power line is live and dangerous. Maintain a safe distance of at least 30 feet away from the downed line and any nearby objects, including trees, metal surfaces, and standing water, as they may also be energised and pose a risk of electrocution.
If you are inside your home and suspect that a downed power line has caused a power surge or overloaded your electronics, check for any fires that may have sparked. If you discover a fire, call 911 immediately. Additionally, if a power line falls on your car, stay calm and remain inside the vehicle. Do not attempt to exit the car, as it may lead to electrocution. Alert others to stay away and call 911 to report the emergency, providing your location to the operator.
In any situation involving downed power lines, it is crucial to call 911 immediately. They will coordinate with the necessary authorities and professionals to address the issue and ensure the area is safe. While you wait for assistance, continue to maintain a safe distance from the downed power line and keep others away as well.
Remember, never attempt to move or touch a downed power line. Licensed professionals have the required skills, tools, and experience to handle this hazardous situation safely. By following these instructions, you can help protect yourself, your loved ones, and others from potential harm.
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Protect appliances from damage
In the event of a power outage, it is important to take steps to protect your appliances from damage. Power outages can cause serious risks to your appliances if the right precautions are not taken. Here are some ways to protect your appliances from damage:
Unplug Appliances
Before a storm, unplug all appliances, especially expensive ones with delicate electronic components like TVs, computers, stereos, and microwaves. Don't forget about smaller appliances, such as toasters, mixers, and coffee makers. Unplugging them will prevent power surges from reaching them when the electricity comes back on.
Use a Surge Protector
For appliances that cannot be unplugged, such as a refrigerator, use a surge protector. These devices divert excess voltage away from appliances, protecting them from damage. They are relatively inexpensive and can save you money in the long run.
Whole-Home Surge Protector
For ultimate protection against power spikes, consider installing a whole-home surge protector. These units hardwire into your main electrical panel and provide comprehensive surge protection for everything connected to your home's wiring. While they can be costly, ranging from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars, they are worth considering if you have many valuable appliances.
Regular Maintenance and Inspection
It is important to regularly inspect your appliances for any signs of damage, frayed wires, or water infiltration. If you notice any unusual smells, noises, or sparking, unplug the appliance immediately and call a technician. Additionally, keep your appliances clean and well-maintained, such as by cleaning the coils in your refrigerator and checking the door seals.
Reset Breakers
If a circuit overloads or shorts, a breaker will trip to cut the power and prevent a fire or electrocution. You can reset a breaker by flipping it back on, but first, disconnect anything on that circuit to prevent further issues. If a circuit breaker trips frequently, call an electrician to inspect the issue.
Choose Energy-Efficient Appliances
When replacing old appliances, opt for Energy Star-certified models. These appliances are designed to operate efficiently and reduce the risk of damage from power outages or voltage fluctuations.
Remember, being proactive is the best way to protect your appliances. Taking these steps can help you minimize the risk of damage and avoid costly repairs. Additionally, in the event of a power outage, you can report it to your local utility company or Transmission and Distribution Service Provider (TDSP) to receive assistance and stay informed about the status of the outage.
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Find your local TDSP, EDU or TDU
When the power goes out, you'll need to find your local TDSP (Transmission & Distribution Service Provider), EDU (Electric Distribution Utility), or TDU (Transmission and Distribution Utility). These are all utility companies that generate and distribute electricity in your area. TDSPs and TDUs are responsible for getting electricity from the generators to your home or office, and they maintain the poles, wires, and meters that record energy usage.
To find your local TDSP, EDU, or TDU, you can search online for "TDSP in [your city/region]," "EDU in [your city/region]," or "TDU in [your city/region]." You can also contact your city or region's government office or energy regulatory body, as they should have information on the local utility providers. Additionally, some websites provide tools to help you identify your local TDSP, EDU, or TDU. You can also try checking your electricity bill, as TDSP and TDU charges will appear as line items, which can help you identify your provider.
If you are experiencing a power outage, you can report it to your local utility company. In some cases, you may be able to report an outage online or through a mobile app. Alternatively, you can call your utility company's customer service line to report the outage and request assistance. It's a good idea to have their contact information readily available before an outage occurs.
Remember that in deregulated energy markets, you may purchase electricity from licensed Retail Electric Providers (REPs), so understanding your electricity bill and knowing your options is essential.
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Report an outage online or via text (or call 105)
When the power goes out, it is important to report the power outage to your utility company. You can do this online, via text, or by phone. Some utility companies allow you to report outages via their website, mobile app, or by texting a specific keyword to a designated number. For example, PSE&G customers can text 'OUT' to 47734 or 'STAT' to check the status of an outage.
If you do not have access to the internet or texting capabilities, you can call your utility company. In some areas, you can call 105 to be connected to your distribution network operator, and this service is free. Calling 105 connects you to your local TDSP (Transmission & Distribution Service Provider), EDU (Electric Distribution Utility), or TDU (Transmission and Distribution Utility). These acronyms refer to the utility company that generates and distributes electricity in your area.
If you see a downed power line, stay away and call 911 immediately to report its location. Then, contact your local power company. For example, PG&E customers can call 1-800-743-5002.
While waiting for power to be restored, there are several things you can do to protect your appliances and electronics. Turn off or unplug all appliances to avoid electrical surges and potential fire hazards. Generators should be used outdoors and away from windows to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. If the heat or cold is extreme, you can go to a community location with power.
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Frequently asked questions
You should call your utility company to turn on your electricity.
Your utility company is your electricity supplier. You can find out which company this is by searching for the TDSP (Transmission & Distribution Service Providers), EDU (Electric Distribution Utilities) or TDU (Transmission and Distribution Utility) for your area.
If you are experiencing a power outage, you should report it to your utility company. You can also report it by calling 105, which will put you through to your distribution network operator.
If you see a downed power line, you should call 911 immediately to report its location. Do not touch anyone or anything that is in contact with the power line.
You can report a power outage with PSE&G by texting OUT to 4PSEG (47734), reporting it online, through their app, or by calling 1-800-436-PSEG (7734).
