How to Prepare for a Power Outage
Posted on July 8, 2022 by Charlotte Shuff
Tags, Oregon Utilities 101, Energy
As Oregon sees more extreme weather, we’re also seeing more power outages. From wildfires to ice storms, nature can sometimes interrupt our energy services. Preparing early can help make a power outage safer and more manageable for your household.
While there are many ways that you can prepare for an emergency, having a few basic supplies and plans is a good place to start. These tools can help you be ready without having to invest in expensive equipment or home upgrades.
Prepared Ahead of Time
While some power outages may be planned, such as Public Safety Power Shutoffs, there is usually no warning for losing power. Having a few supplies at the ready can make a big difference in an emergency.
Sign up for alerts through OR-Alert to receive notifications about emergency situations and instructions for your area.
Food and Water
Keep a supply of non-perishable food handy. Make sure you have 2-3 days’ worth of food or more if you live in a remote area. Canned items, like fruits and vegetables or soups, are a great basic option. Protein bars, cereals, or other dried foods are also good to have on hand. Consider having some comfort food to enjoy, too - outages can be stressful!
Have a good supply of drinking water available, about 2-3 days’ worth. Remember that water does expire, so check your stock and replace it periodically. An outage can impact your access to tap water, depending on where you live. If you use an electric-powered well pump, consider a backup system (solar-powered pump, backup gas generator, etc.) to keep your well usable during an outage.
Plan for safe water in case of a longer outage. Water purification (like LifeStraw) can help you have safe drinking water even if there is a boil notice in place. Have a few frozen containers of water in your freezer. Even if your freezer goes out for a long time, the water will still be drinkable.
Healthcare
Make a plan with your doctor based on your medical needs. If you take medication, make sure you have a few days’ supply on hand, if possible. Keep extra medication, first aid supplies, and basic care supplies (painkillers, cold/flu, etc.) on hand for emergencies.
If you require electricity for your medical care, create a plan for either backup energy supplies (generators, solar + storage) or a safe place to relocate. Medical certificates are available through your utility [link to medical certs blog], though this will not prevent an outage.
Safe Shelter
Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors that run on batteries. These tools are important for keeping your home safe even if you lose power.
Have a supply of flashlights and extra batteries in an easily accessible place. Keep these on the main level of your home, avoiding stairs where possible. Make sure the batteries fit your flashlights, too.
Make a plan for when to leave your home during an outage. Make a list of places that you can relocate to if needed and write down those addresses and phone numbers on paper. Know where warming and cooling centers are located near your area for extreme temperatures. Talk to your community (family, friends, and neighbors) to see who is available to host you in case of an emergency and what supplies they have available.
Prepared Ahead of Time
While you are experiencing a power outage, there are a few things you can do to stay safe. If you’re concerned about being safe inside your home, make a plan to relocate early!
Food and Water
Keep your refrigerator and freezer closed to maintain temperature. A refrigerator will stay at a safe temperature for about four hours if unopened. A full freezer will stay cold for 48 hours unopened or 24 hours for a half-full freezer. Any perishable food that has been below 40 degrees Fahrenheit for more than two hours should be thrown away.
Don’t use camping stoves inside! Propane, charcoal, or similar cooking equipment can add carbon monoxide to your home. If you plan to heat your food during an outage, make sure to do this outdoors.
If you are using a gas stove, make sure to open windows while using the burners. Gas stoves can add harmful gases to your home and must be used with proper ventilation. Make sure your carbon monoxide detector is working properly before turning on your gas stove.
Healthcare
Consider the temperature and relocate if possible. During extreme temperatures, it can be unsafe to stay in an unheated or uncooled home. Warming and cooling shelters are a good option, especially if you require a certain temperature for your health. Keep an eye on pets for signs of heat-related illness.
Stay hydrated, especially during hotter months. High temperatures can increase your risk for heat-related illness. Avoid high sugar and alcoholic beverages. Prioritize drinking water or sports drinks to keep hydrated.
Safe Shelter
Do not use outside heaters indoors. Burning propane or other gas-fired patio heaters indoors can add carbon monoxide to your home. These heaters should only be used outdoors.
Do not use gas stoves to heat your home. Leaving a gas stove running can add carbon monoxide to your home. Stoves are safe to use with proper ventilation but should not be used to heat a larger space.
Use flashlights or lanterns, not candles. Candles can be a fire hazard, especially if you have children or pets in your home.
Unplug your electronics to avoid damage from power surges. Do not turn off your utilities (including gas lines and breakers) unless instructed to by public officials.
Avoid downed power lines at all costs. Stay 35 feet or more away from downed lines or poles. These lines are incredibly dangerous, even if the power in your home is out. If you see downed lines outside of your home, contact your utility company immediately.
CUB is Working to Keep Your Utilities Reliable
While some power outages are unavoidable, CUB is here to keep your utilities reliable. As consumer advocates, we work to create utility policy that ensures your energy stays on when you need it. Consider donating to CUB to support this important work.
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10/05/22 | 0 Comments | How to Prepare for a Power Outage