Molly Ayala
When the electricity goes off, it can be difficult to know who to call, especially if you are unable to access the internet. In the event of a power outage, it is recommended that you contact your utility company, which is responsible for generating and distributing electricity in your area. You can also call your local electricity provider, which may vary depending on your location. It is important to be prepared for power outages, as they can cause food spoilage, water contamination, and disruption to communication, water, and transportation services.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| If you see a downed power line | Call 911 immediately to report its location, then call your electricity provider |
| If you smell gas | Call your electricity provider or 911 |
| Reporting an outage | Call your electricity provider or text a specific number provided by your provider |
| To receive the latest update for your reported outage | Text a specific number provided by your electricity provider |
| If the equipment is unplugged but the circuit breaker trips off again | Call an electrician |
| If you have a generator | Ensure it is used outdoors and at least 20 feet away from windows, doors, and attached garages |
| To prepare for a power outage | Make a list of emergency contacts, keep your car's gas tank at least half full, and subscribe to text alert services from your utility company and local government |
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What You'll Learn
Report a power outage to your utility company
When the power goes out, it is important to report the power outage to your utility company. This can help them identify the issue and restore power. Here are some steps to follow when reporting a power outage:
Identify Your Utility Company
Determine which company provides your electricity. In some cases, you may buy electricity from licensed Retail Electric Providers (REPs) in deregulated energy markets. Find the Transmission and Distribution Service Provider (TDSP), Electric Distribution Utility (EDU), or Transmission and Distribution Utility (TDU) for your area. These terms all refer to the utility company responsible for generating and distributing electricity in your region.
Contact the Utility Company
Once you know your utility company, you can contact them to report the power outage. Many companies offer multiple ways to report an outage:
- Phone Call: Most utility companies provide a dedicated phone number for reporting power outages. You can call this number to speak to a representative or follow automated instructions to report the issue. Keep this number handy for quick access during an outage.
- Text Message: Some companies allow you to report outages via text message. You may need to register for this service by texting a specific keyword to their number. Then, simply text them when you need to report an outage.
- Online Reporting: Certain utility companies offer online reporting tools on their websites. You can visit their website and fill out a form to report the power outage.
Provide Necessary Information
When reporting the power outage, provide as much information as possible. This includes your name, address, and specific location affected by the outage. Describe the issue you're experiencing and any relevant details, such as whether you see any downed power lines or other damage. This information helps the utility company assess the situation and dispatch the appropriate resources for repairs.
Take Precautions
While waiting for the power to be restored, take necessary precautions to protect yourself and your belongings:
- Unplug Appliances: Power surges can damage sensitive electronics and appliances. Unplug computers, televisions, and other valuable devices to prevent potential damage when the power comes back on.
- Keep Refrigerators Closed: Limit opening your refrigerator and freezer doors to prevent food spoilage. Perishable food in a closed refrigerator can stay cold for about four hours. Use coolers with ice if the outage extends beyond a few hours.
- Use Alternative Lighting: Avoid using candles, as they pose a fire hazard. Opt for battery-operated flashlights or wind-up lights to illuminate your space safely.
- Be Wary of Downed Power Lines: If you see any downed power lines, stay at least 30 feet away, and call 911 immediately to report the location. Assume that the power lines are energized and pose a danger.
By following these steps and staying informed, you can effectively report a power outage to your utility company and take the necessary measures to safeguard yourself and your belongings during the power interruption.
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Protect your appliances and electronics
When the electricity goes off, you should first call your electricity provider to report the outage and get information about the status of the issue and expected restoration time. You can also call emergency services if there is a risk to public safety, such as downed power lines.
To protect your appliances and electronics during a power outage, there are several measures you can take:
- Unplug sensitive electronics and appliances: When the power goes out, unplug electronics such as computers, televisions, and game consoles to protect them from potential power surges when the electricity comes back on.
- Use a UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply): A UPS is a device that provides battery backup power to connected equipment. It acts as a surge protector and will keep your devices running during a power outage. This is especially useful for devices like computers, routers, and smart TVs.
- Whole-home surge protection: Consider investing in a whole-home surge protection system if you live in an area with frequent power outages. This will help protect all your appliances and electronics by preventing power surges from the electrical grid and within your home.
- Generator: If you have a generator, ensure it is properly installed and operated by a qualified professional. A generator can provide backup power to essential appliances and lights during an outage, but it should never be connected directly to your home's wiring system or another power source, such as the electrical grid.
- Refrigerator and freezer: Keep the doors closed to maintain the cold temperature. A refrigerator can keep food cold for about four hours, while a full freezer can last for up to 48 hours. Place blocks of ice inside to help keep food cold for longer.
- Avoid overloaded circuits: When power is restored, avoid turning on too many appliances at once, as this can overload the circuits and create a fire hazard. Turn your appliances back on one at a time.
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Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed
When the electricity goes off, it's important to keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed. This is because opening the doors allows the cold air to escape, causing the internal temperature to rise. The colder and fuller the fridge or freezer is, the longer it will remain cold. A full freezer will stay cold for around 48 hours, whereas a half-full freezer will only stay cold for about 24 hours. Keeping the doors closed will therefore significantly extend the amount of time your food stays fresh.
If the power is out for longer than four hours, you should pack items with ice in a cooler to keep them below 40°F. If you don't have a thermometer to monitor the temperature, throw out any food that has been above 40°F for more than two hours.
It's also important to notify your alarm company if you have an alarm system, as equipment can be affected by power outages.
When the power comes back on, turn your appliances back on one at a time to avoid overloading the circuits, which can be a fire hazard.
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Stay away from downed power lines
When the electricity goes off, it is important to stay calm and follow safety procedures. One of the most crucial things to remember is to stay away from downed power lines. Here are some detailed instructions on how to stay safe in such situations:
Firstly, always assume that a downed power line is energised and dangerous. Keep yourself at a safe distance, at least 30 feet away, and instruct others to do the same. Do not touch anyone or anything in contact with the downed line, including fallen electric wires. Keep children and pets away, and make sure to warn others of the potential hazard.
If you are in a car and a power line falls on it, stay inside the vehicle. The ground around your car may be energised, so honk the horn, roll down the window, and call for help. Use your cell phone to notify emergency services by calling 911 in the US. Additionally, if you smell gas, which has a "rotten egg" odour, immediately evacuate the area and call 911 or your local utility company.
If you are using a generator during a power outage, it is important to follow safety guidelines. Use the generator outdoors and ensure it is at at least 20 feet away from windows, doors, and attached garages to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Make sure the electric load on your generator does not exceed the manufacturer's rating, and properly manage cords to avoid tripping hazards. Never connect a generator directly to your home's electrical system or another power source, such as the power lines.
To summarise, staying away from downed power lines is crucial for your safety during a power outage. Keep a safe distance, warn others, and call for help if needed. Remember to follow safety guidelines when using alternative power sources, such as generators, to prevent accidents and carbon monoxide poisoning.
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Conserve your cell phone battery
When the electricity goes off, it is important to conserve your cell phone battery. Your phone is a vital tool to help you stay connected during a power outage, allowing you to contact family and friends, stay updated on weather and emergency events, and call the authorities if needed. Here are some ways to conserve your cell phone battery:
Before a Power Outage
It's a good idea to keep your phone plugged in and charging when a storm is approaching. Also, ensure your laptop is charged, as this can be used to charge your phone via a USB cable. You can also purchase a portable charger or battery case, which can be very useful during power outages.
During a Power Outage
- Dim the screen brightness: Adjusting your screen to the lowest comfortable level will help conserve power.
- Reduce background applications: Applications like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and location services consume battery power even when not in use. Disabling these during a power outage will help preserve your battery.
- Enable Low Power Mode: Most modern phones have a Low Power Mode or Battery Saver Mode that reduces power usage and extends battery life. This can usually be found in your phone's settings.
- Use Airplane Mode: If you don't need to stay connected, switch on Airplane Mode to cut off all radio signals and conserve battery.
- Send text messages: Texting uses less battery power than a phone call, so send a text if possible.
- Alternative charging methods: If you have access to a car, you can use a car charger. You can also purchase hand-crank or solar-powered chargers.
By following these tips, you can extend your phone's battery life during a power outage, ensuring you stay connected when you need it most.
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Frequently asked questions
You should first report a power outage to your utility company. You can also call an emergency service number, such as 911 in the US, to report a power outage and receive further guidance.
You should unplug or turn off all electric and heat-producing appliances to avoid overloading circuits and causing a fire hazard. Keep the refrigerator and freezer doors closed to preserve food for longer.
Stay away from downed power lines and call 911 immediately to report its location. Do not touch anyone or anything that is in contact with the power line and keep children and pets away.
