A power outage (also called a power cut, a power blackout, power failure or a blackout) is a short- or long-term loss of the electric power to an area. There are many causes of power failures and there are many ways to keep safe during an incident.
If Your Power Goes Out at Home
- Check your fuse box or circuit breaker and contact neighbors to see if the outage is limited to your own home.
- Turn off computers, stereos, television and appliances you were using when the power went off. Leave one light turned on so you know when power is restored.
- Avoid opening the refrigerator and freezer. Food will remain fresh for up to four hours after the power goes off. If you know power outages may happen, freeze water in plastic bottles to keep food stay cool longer.
- Always keep your car’s fuel tank at least half full – gas stations use electricity to operate pumps.
- Know how to manually release your electric garage door.
- If the outage if expected to last for several days or more, consider relocating to a shelter or a friend’s home.
If Your Power Goes Out at Work
- If possible, call the utility company and advise them of your location and nature of the problem.
- Assist others in your immediate area who may be unfamiliar with the building.
- Turn off equipment such as computers and monitors to avoid potential damage once the power is restored.
- If you are in a dark area, proceed cautiously outside or to an area that has emergency light.
- If you are on an elevator, use the elevator emergency alarm button to alert help.
- Please remember to always remain calm and await further instructions.