How to prepare for a planned outage

If you’ve received a notice about a planned outage in your area, here are some easy ways to prepare:

  • Turn off electrical appliances like your oven, dishwasher, and dryer.
  • Unplug electronics such as TVs, computers and Wi-Fi routers to protect them from possible power surges when electricity comes back on.
  • Charge your devices (phones, tablets, etc.) ahead of time.
  • If you use medical equipment that needs power, make sure you have a battery or generator backup.
  • In winter, keep windows and doors closed. Your home will stay warm for several hours.
  • Food in freezers will stay frozen for 24–48 hours if unopened.
  • Food in refrigerators will stay cold for about 4 hours. If the outage lasts longer, add ice to help keep food safe.
  • Never use your barbecue indoors or in an enclosed space to cook food. Always provide good ventilation.
  • If you use a generator, follow the manufacturer’s instructions and place it in a well-ventilated area.

We know getting your power back is important. That’s why we work hard to keep planned outages as short as possible.

Read more about how to prepare for a power outage.