Smart Tips

• Leave one light on so you know when the power has been restored.
• Never use a barbecue indoors - carbon monoxide emissions can cause asphyxiation.
• Turn off water to the clothes washer and dishwasher.
• Do not open the freezer door while the power is off. Food will stay frozen in a full freezer for 24 to 48 hours. Most food will stay frozen in a partly filled freezer for 12 to 24 hours.
• Most bakery products can be refrozen. Ice cream should be discarded.
• Keep the refrigerator door closed so cold air does not escape. Most refrigerated food will keep for 16 hours. Dairy products such as sour cream, milk, cream, cottage cheese and yogurt should be discarded after 6 to 8 hours.
• Install a surge protector to protect computers and televisions from damage.
• You should learn how to manually open your electric garage door.
• If you have gas appliances, check if they have electronic ignitions. Appliances that have electronic ignitions will not work during an outage.
• Check to ensure your smoke detectors have fresh batteries.
• Have an emergency plan in place if someone in your home depends on life support equipment.
• When the power comes back on, wait a few minutes before turning on major appliances. This will help prevent power surges.

If you know there is going to be a power outage

• Shut off sensitive electronic equipment like computers and fax machines.
• Leave one light on so you’ll know when power has been restored.
• Turn off all heat-producing electric devices – including toaster ovens, stove tops, irons and hair curlers.
• Stay out of elevators – use the stairs.