Consumer Tip for June 2004

If You Have a Power Outage

Power outages can occur for many reasons. Some are short-lived and others can last several days. Here are a few suggestions to print and refer to if you lose your power.

Ø      Check to see if you have a blown fuse or tripped circuit breaker. If those are ok, call your electric company to report the outage.

Ø      Turn off or unplug any sensitive electrical equipment such as TVs and computers.

Ø     Turn off your electric stove and oven, heat pump, air-conditioners, furnace, clothes washer, and clothes dryer. Unplug clothes irons, curling irons, hair dryers, and other heat producing appliances.

Ø      Leave on one electric light so youll know when the power is back on.

Ø      Keep all refrigerators and freezers closed as long as possible without opening them to keep food cold and prevent spoilage.

Ø      If it is very cold outside, set an inside faucet to a trickle to help prevent pipes from freezing.

Ø      Surge suppressors for sensitive or important electric equipment.

Ø      Check on neighbors who may be elderly or in need of help.