How to Report A Power Outage?

Top Safety Tips for a Power Outage:

• Only use a flashlight for emergency lighting. Never use candles!

• Turn off electrical equipment you were using when the power went out.

• Avoid opening the refrigerator and freezer.

• Do not run a generator inside a home or garage.

• If you use a generator, connect the equipment you want to power directly to the outlets on the generator. Do not connect a generator to a home's electrical system.

• Listen to local radio and television for updated information.

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Preparing for a Power Outage

Assemble essential supplies, including:

• Flashlight

• Batteries

• Portable radio

• At least one gallon of water

• A small supply of food.

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Other Tips

• During an outage, due to the extreme risk of fire, do not use candles.

• If you use medication that requires refrigeration, most can be kept in a closed refrigerator for several hours without a problem. If unsure, check with your physician or pharmacist.

• Plan ahead and make sure your cell phone is charged and portable radios or other battery-operated essentials have working batteries.

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Computers

• Keep computer files and operating systems backed up regularly.

• Consider buying extra batteries and a power converter if you use a laptop computer. A power converter allows most laptops (12 volts or less) to be operated from the cigarette lighter of a vehicle.

• Turn off all computers, monitors, printers, copiers, scanners and other devices when they're not being used, especially if you know a storm is coming. That way, if the power goes out, this equipment will have already been safely shut down.

• Get a high quality surge protector for all of your computer equipment.

• If you use the computer a lot, such as for a home business, consider purchasing and installing an uninterruptible power supply (UPS). Consult with your local computer equipment dealer about available equipment and costs.