• |
Check whether the power outage is only in your home. If your
neighbour's power is still on, check your circuit breaker panel or fuse
box. |
• |
Keep emergency numbers, like your hydro company, near your
telephone. |
• |
Don’t open your freezer or fridge unless it’s absolutely necessary. A
full freezer will keep food frozen for 24 to 36 hours if the door
remains closed. |
• |
Keep an eye on your freezer. Meats and frozen foods may thaw. |
• |
Consume perishables first. |
• |
Leave one light switch turned on so you’ll know when the power comes back on. |
• |
If you live in a townhouse, open your taps slightly at the lowest point in your home to keep your
pipes from freezing. |
• |
Use candles and wind-up lanterns if you can, especially if you don’t
have backup batteries available. And make
sure those candles are in proper deep, wide holders.
|
• |
Candles can cause fires, especially if you have pets or children and
the fumes can set off your smoke detector. |
• |
Never use charcoal or gas barbecues, camping heating equipment, or home
generators indoors because they give off carbon monoxide. |
• |
If the carbon monoxide alarm sounds, move quickly to a fresh-air
location outdoors or near an open window or door. |
• |
Turn off or disconnect any appliances (like stoves) and other equipment
or electronics that were in use when the power went out. When the power
comes back on, surges or spikes can damage equipment. |
• |
Gasoline for your car. Local gas stations may be closed and the ones that are open, may have long lineups. |
• |
Do not travel unnecessarily, especially by car. Traffic lights will be
out and roads will be congested. |
• |
Go to a designated public shelter if your home loses power or heat
during periods of extreme cold. |
• |
Check on those who may need special assistance like elderly people
living alone, those with disabilities and children. |