Power outages are very common and occur when there is a failure in structures and systems that generate and bring electricity to your home or business.
Power interruptions can be caused by
- A strain on the electrical system (through overuse)
- Failure in the manufacturing plants that generate power (something stops working)
- Damage to the systems that bring power to your home or business (power lines break or towers are damaged)
Before the lights go out
- Use surge protectors
- Know how to safely shut-off your electricity, water and gas if directed to do so
- Have back-up light sources such as flashlights with batteries
- Have a corded telephone that will work without home power
- Know how to release your electric garage door opener and how to open the door without electricity
- Have a cooler on-hand for cold food storage
- If you depend on home oxygen, do not rely on power
- Save your hydro provider’s information
While the lights are out
- Listen to your local news on the radio for updates and instructions from officials
- Visit the power outage maps of your hydro provider in York Region
- Locate your 72-hour emergency kit
- NEVER use outdoor grills, smokers or barbecues indoors to cook or as a source of heat – they are a fire hazard and they release deadly carbon monoxide gas
- NEVER operate any fuel burning equipment (including generators) inside your home, basement, garage or other enclosed area (they release deadly carbon monoxide gas)
- Only open the refrigerator if absolutely necessary to keep food cool and prevent spoilage