Planned Outages

The power can go out for a number of reasons. Three of the most common reasons are:

• Mother Nature can take a swipe at power lines any time she pleases, with anything she wants - from forest fires to blizzards and an array of other natural hazards in between. When emergencies occur, our team is on the job to restore power as soon as possible.
• Sometimes, we need to interrupt power so we can do work on the distribution system safely. We try to avoid this and when we can’t, we give customers as much notice as possible.
• Service disruptions can occur when available supplies of electricity are tight, such as when there are unforeseen problems at generating stations or problems on the grid.  
  

• A flashlight with fresh batteries, blankets and a battery-operated radio will go a long way towards getting you through a power outage comfortably and safely. An emergency preparedness kit makes a great gift, too!
• Have a flashlight and extra batteries in a place that is easy to locate in the dark. 
• If you use candles be sure they have solid, stable holders. Never leave them unattended and always be cautious with children and pets around. Have a fire extinguisher (A-B-C type) on hand and know how to use it.
• Minimize use of your cellular phone during a power outage to preserve power, and always have an emergency charger on hand.
• Cordless phones that require connection to an electric outlet won't work during power outages. Ensure you have a model that plugs directly into the phone jack for use during a power outage.
• A battery-operated radio can be a source of important information and updates during an outage. Make sure you have extra batteries on hand.
• If you are advised it will be a long power outage, fill containers first with water for household use, and then consider turning off your main water tap. Open all taps and flush toilets to clear water out of the system, and put RV-type antifreeze in the toilet and sink traps.

• Check your main electric panel and breaker. A blown fuse or tripped breaker can shut down your power. A quick inspection can help determine whether one or more breaker switches may be off. Simply moving any tripped switches to the off position and then to the on position can restore power.
• Call us! We’re here 24-hours-a-day to respond to power outages and emergencies. Call us at 633-7000.
• Close blinds or drapes and avoid opening doors to keep heat from escaping. Do not use outdoor BBQs, kerosene heaters and camping heaters indoors because they emit carbon monoxide, which can be lethal.
• Do not turn off or unplug your fridge or freezer during a power outage. Only open the doors when absolutely necessary. A full freezer will keep food frozen for approximately 24 to 36 hours if the door remains closed. After power is restored, check all frozen foods to determine the extent of thawing. If in doubt, throw it out.
• Unplug sensitive equipment and electronics during a power outage. Appliances like ovens and irons which may have been on when power was lost can sometimes be forgotten during an outage and become a serious safety hazard. 
• Help us restore service quicker. Power can be restored more easily by reducing the load on the electricity system. Don't have all your appliances waiting to draw power the instant power lines are reenergized. When power is back on, turn on the most essential appliances first. Wait 10 to 15 minutes before reconnecting the others.