Power Outage: Steps to Take Before, During and After

Steps to take before, during and after an outage

Trico works year-round to provide dependable electric service. Summer monsoon storms often bring strong winds that cause unexpected damage. Trico is prepared to respond quickly when damage occurs, but outages are still possible.

Preparing ahead of time for these events will protect yourself and your loved ones. Here are some ideas to consider when making your plan:

• Have extra batteries and a car charger for your mobile devices.
• Keep a physical list of emergency, family and work contacts.
• Know the location of flashlights and a radio. Ensure they are easy to access and that you have extra batteries.
• Conserve your cell phone battery by reducing the screen brightness, placing it in airplane mode, and closing all unused apps.
• Switch off all unnecessary lights and appliances to prevent overloaded circuits when power is restored.
• Keep your car gas or electric tank half full. Gas and electric stations rely on electricity to power their pumps.
• Have a supply of water in the house. FEMA recommends a three-day supply.

Sign up for Outage Notifications

You don’t have to feel powerless during a power outage. Sign up for Trico’s Outage Notifications through our SmartHub app or visiting the Outage page here. SmartHub users can report an outage through the app or by texting “OUT” to 855-937-1858.

Know your medical needs

• Talk with your medical provider about a power outage plan for medical devices powered by electricity and refrigerated medicines.
• Know how long your medications can be stored at higher temperatures and get guidance for any medications or devices that are critical for life.
• Keep Trico informed if you have life sustaining equipment by submitting the Life Sustaining Equipment Form, which is available on our website or request the form by emailing memberservices@trico.coop.

Food storage

Have enough nonperishable food and water. Keep freezers and refrigerators closed. The refrigerator will keep food cold for about four hours. A full freezer will keep the temperature for about 48 hours. Use coolers with ice if necessary. Monitor temperatures with a thermometer. Throw out food if the temperature is 40 degrees or higher.

How to protect yourself during a power outage

Go to a community location with power if heat or cold is extreme.

Using appliances during power outages

Generators, camp stoves or charcoal grills should always be used outdoors and at least 20 feet away from windows. Turn off or disconnect appliances, equipment, or electronics. Power may return with momentary surges or spikes that can cause damage.

Returning after a power outage

When in doubt, throw it out! Throw away any food that has been exposed to temperatures 40 degrees or higher for two hours or more, or that has an unusual odor, color or texture.

If the power is out for more than a day, discard any medication that should be refrigerated, unless the drug’s label says otherwise. Consult your doctor or pharmacist immediately for a new supply.

Power outage tips

• Keep freezers and refrigerators closed.
• Use a generator, but ONLY outdoors and away from windows.
• Do not use a gas stove or oven to heat your home.
• Disconnect appliances and electronics to avoid damage from electrical surges.
• Have alternate plans for refrigerating medicines or using power-dependent medical devices.
• Check with local officials about heating and cooling locations open near you.

For more tips, visit: www.ready.gov.