Don’t Be Left in the Dark if the Power Goes Out

Many people think of ‘emergencies’ in terms of fires and earthquakes, but as we saw recently, there are a number of reasons we could experience a power outage. Storms, high winds, traffic accidents, planned system upgrades, and even transmission line failures, like the one that happened on September 8, can cause the lights to go out — along with gas pumps, ATM machines, and anything else that relies on electricity.

What steps can you take to avoid being left in the dark if the power goes out?

Develop a Plan

Learn ways in and out of your neighborhood in case the usual routes are blocked. Pick a place for family members to meet in case the roads to your house are inaccessible. Make plans to transport household pets and large animals. And don’t forget to designate a relative or friend as an out-of-area contact. During emergencies, long distance phone systems often work, while local systems are often overloaded.

Prepare Your Emergency Kits

Emergency kits should include items you’ll need whether you stay at home or have to evacuate. You should make a kit for your car and your home, as well as develop a list of important things you’ll need to gather in case of emergency.

A kit for your car should include things like water, food bars, an emergency blanket, first aid items, gloves, jumper cables, light sticks, flashlight, batteries, and phone charger. Keep this kit in your car.

Your personal emergency kit should have three days’ worth of food and water, a change of clothing and shoes, toiletries, battery-powered radio, and special items for infants, pets, and elderly or disabled family members. Keep this kit handy in case you have to leave your home quickly.

And finally, keep a list of important things along with a box for collecting them in case of emergency. Everyone’s needs are different, but some common items include prescription medications, eyeglasses, important documents, cell phone and laptop chargers, external hard drives, children’s toys, and pet items.

Know Where to Get More Information

For more information on how you can prepare for emergencies, check out SDG&E’s comprehensive guide “Emergency Preparedness: What You Should Know” or visit sdge.com/safety.