Preparing for Power Outages

Electricity powers nearly everything in our lives, so it's understandably frustrating when the lights go out. With some preparation, you can minimize inconvenience during an outage.

Get Prepared:

• Know Your Account Details: Make sure you have your account number handy and that AEMC has your current phone number on file. This will streamline reporting an outage.
• Create a Checklist: Visit the Ready.gov website to customize a preparedness checklist tailored to your needs.

Special Considerations:

• Life-Support Equipment: If you rely on life-support devices, make alternate arrangements for power or lodging in case of a prolonged outage.

Understanding the Risks: Severe weather events like ice storms and tornadoes can lead to extended outages. Protect your family and property by following these tips.

Safety Tips

• Food Preservation: Limit the opening of your freezer and refrigerator to keep food from spoiling. The contents will stay cold longer if the doors remain closed.
• Avoid Indoor Cooking: Do not cook inside with charcoal, and be cautious with candles, fireplaces, and fuel lamps.
• Generator Safety: If using a portable generator, ensure it's isolated from our lines with a double-pole, double-throw transfer switch to prevent electrocution and damage to your appliances. Learn more about generator safety.

Essential Supplies

Having the right supplies on hand can make a significant difference during an extended outage. Rotate your supplies regularly to keep them fresh.

• Lighting and Heating:
  • Flashlights and extra batteries
  • Candles and matches or fuel lamps (kerosene, oil, propane) with extra fuel
• Water:
  • Maintain a 3- to 5-day supply of drinking water in plastic bottles (1 gallon per person per day).
  • If you rely on a well, fill bathtubs or large containers for household use and clean pitchers or jugs for drinking.
• Food:
  • Stock up on nonperishable items that require no cooking, such as canned goods and snacks. Don’t forget pet food and a manual can opener.
• Medical and Hygiene Supplies:
  • First aid kits (for home and car)
  • Prescription and over-the-counter medications
  • Sanitary and personal hygiene items (consider premoistened towelettes to save water)
• Warmth and Comfort:
  • Blankets, sleeping bags, and extra winter clothing
  • If you have a fireplace, stock up on kindling and firewood
• Communication:
  • An AM/FM radio with extra batteries for local updates and a NOAA weather radio for alerts
  • A USB battery bank to charge mobile devices
  • A battery-powered alarm clock
• Transportation:
  • Ensure your vehicle is fully fueled
  • Keep a charged fire extinguisher nearby
• Entertainment:
  • Have playing cards, board games, books, or drawing supplies to keep entertained.

Stay in Touch

• Landline Phone: Have at least one non-portable phone that works without power.
• Communication Plan: Plan a meeting spot and communication methods with family members in case you get separated.
• Contact Information: Keep essential contact details for family members near your phone, in your wallet, and in your vehicle.

By preparing in advance, you can help ensure your family's safety and comfort during power outages.