- Remain calm, and assist family members or neighbors who may be vulnerable if exposed to extreme heat or cold.
- Locate a flashlight with batteries to use until power comes back on. Do not use candles—this can cause a fire.
- Turn off sensitive electric equipment such as computers, VCRs, and televisions.
- Turn off major electric appliances that were on when the power went off. This will help to prevent power surges when electricity is restored.
- Keep your refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible to keep cold in and heat out.
- Do not use the stove to heat your home - this can cause a fire or fatal gas leak.
- Use extreme caution when driving. If traffic signals are out, treat each signal as a stop sign - come to a complete stop at every intersection and look before you proceed.
- Do not call 911 to ask about the power outage. Listen to radio news for updates.
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