Power Outages

Power outages are very common and occur when there is a failure in structures and systems that generate and bring electricity to your home or business.

Power interruptions can be caused by

• A strain on the electrical system (through overuse)
• Failure in the manufacturing plants that generate power (something stops working)
• Damage to the systems that bring power to your home or business (power lines break or towers are damaged)

Before the lights go out

• Use surge protectors
• Know how to safely shut-off­ your electricity, water and gas if directed to do so
• Have back-up light sources such as flashlights with batteries
• Have a corded telephone that will work without home power
• Know how to release your electric garage door opener and how to open the door without electricity
• Have a cooler on-hand for cold food storage
• If you depend on home oxygen, do not rely on power
• Save your hydro provider’s information

While the lights are out

• Listen to your local news on the radio for updates and instructions from officials
• Visit the power outage maps of your hydro provider in York Region
• Locate your 72-hour emergency kit
• Never use outdoor grills, smokers or barbecues indoors to cook or as a source of heat – they are a fire hazard and they release deadly carbon monoxide gas
• Never operate any fuel burning equipment (including generators) inside your home, basement, garage or other enclosed area (they release deadly carbon monoxide gas)
• Only open the refrigerator if absolutely necessary to keep food cool and prevent spoilage