There are a number of things you can do during a power outage to help protect your property from damage. Take a look at our power outage tips below to learn what you should do if the lights go out and the interruption is on BEC’s system.
Outage Safety Tips
- Unplug sensitive electronics, like televisions and computers, and appliances that have motors, like air conditioners. You should also turn off all electrical appliances that were on when the power went off, especially heat pumps, or electric heat. This may prevent appliances from being damaged by power variations that can occur when power is restored.
- Keep freezer and refrigerator doors closed during outages. Food will generally stay frozen for 36 to 48 hours in a fully-loaded freezer if you keep the door closed. A half-full freezer will generally keep food frozen for 24 hours.
- As soon as power returns, check temperatures. If the food in the freezer has ice crystals and is not above 40 degrees F, you can refreeze. Perishable foods in the refrigerator should not be above 40 degrees F for more than two hours.
- If you experience a power outage and have food safety concerns, please refer to FoodSafety.gov’s Food Safety During Power Outage webpage.
- Keep curtains closed and limit trips outside to retain heat for a longer period.
- Make sure to have flashlights, a battery-powered radio, and fresh batteries in an easily accessible area.
- Keep a battery-operated radio tuned to a local station. If the power outage is extensive or if there are rotating outages, announcements should be made on the radio.
- If you plan to hook up a gas power powered portable generator during an outage plug appliances directly into it. Do not connect the generator directly to your house wiring.
- Do not operate a generator in a confined space and be sure the exhaust fumes are blowing away from your home.