Purchase a battery operated or hand crank radio and add it to your emergency preparedness kit. Emergency messages can be communicated via local radio stations.
After the power goes out in an emergency, unplug major appliances and electronics. When the power comes back on, there may be power spikes that can damage large appliances or delicate electronics.
Limit the times you open your refrigerator and freezer. An unopened refrigerator will keep food cold for about four hours and an unopened freezer will keep food frozen for 24 hours.
Discard food if refrigerator temperature exceeds five degrees for more than two hours.
Use candles only when absolutely necessary. Use caution when burning.
Do not use the kitchen range or oven to heat during a power outage.
In a disaster, do not call 9-1-1 to report power outages or to inquire about power restoration; only call 9-1-1 in life-threatening emergencies. In Strathcona County, phone FORTIS Emergency Response at 780-310-9473 to report a downed power line.
Stay away from downed power lines and anything they come into contact with such as fences or buildings. Do not drive over downed power lines as they may be energized.
Do not use charcoal or gas grills inside a structure as you may be overcome by carbon monoxide.
Consider purchasing a generator to lessen or eliminate the impact of a power outage on your life.
