Power Outage: Here’s How To Prepare
By Hope Bidegainberry on October 8, 2019
Below are tips on how to prepare for a planned power outage:
- Confirm or update your contact information with PG&E
- Create a safety plan for all members of your family, including pets.
- Prepare an emergency supply kit. Include enough water and nonperishable food to last your household one week.
- Determine if your landline will work during an outage. Keep a mobile phone as backup.
- Keep mobile phones charged.
- If you have a generator, make sure it’s ready to operate safely.
- Have flashlights available for your household. Avoid using candles.
- Have a battery-powered or crank radio.
- Stock up on the right batteries for items you rely on. Include two extra sets in various sizes.
- Keep cash on hand and a full tank of gas. ATMs and gas stations may not be available during an outage.
- Learn how to manually open your garage or any other door that operates with electricity.
- Talk with your building manager if you live or work in a building that has elevators or electronic key card access to understand how they will deal with a possible multi-day outage.
Take these steps during an outage:
- Unplug or turn off appliances, equipment, and electronics to avoid damage caused by surges when the power is restored.
- Leave a single lamp on to alert you when the power returns.
- Your refrigerator will keep food cold for about 4 hours and a full freezer will keep its temperature for about 48 hours. Consider using coolers with ice to keep food cold and safe.
- Be sure to use generators, camp stoves, or charcoal grills outdoors only.
- Check on your neighbors.
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