Power outages can disrupt daily life and may sometimes be dangerous. Outages can last from a few minutes to several days and may affect important needs, including lighting, heating and cooling, communication, cooking, and keeping medicines that require refrigeration cold. Whether a power outage is planned or unexpected, preparing ahead can help keep you and your family safe.

How to Prepare For a Power Outage

• Create an emergency supply kit. An emergency supply kit includes important items your household may need during an emergency. Remember to prepare supplies for any pets.
  
• Make a list of items that need electricity. Identify important devices and appliances that rely on power. Keep extra batteries or other backup power sources available. Make sure every member of your household has a flashlight.
• Plan for medical needs. Talk with your medical provider about how to prepare for a power outage if you use electric medical devices or have medicines that require refrigeration. Learn how long your medications can be stored without power and what steps you should take to keep them safe.
• Create an emergency communication plan. A family emergency communication plan explains what to do, how to contact each other, and where to meet if you are separated during an emergency.
• Sign up for emergency notifications:
  • Sign up for AlertSCC to receive emergency notifications from Santa Clara County’s official emergency alert system.
  • Download the Genasys Protect app to receive neighborhood-specific evacuation updates and emergency information based on your location.
  • You can also sign up for PG&E Public Safety Power Shutoff notifications at www.pge.com.
    
• Install smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. Test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors every month. Replace batteries once a year or as needed.

What to Do During A Power Outage

• Keep freezers and refrigerators closed. A refrigerator or freezer can keep food cold for up to 48 hours, depending on how full it is. Use a thermometer to check food temperatures. Throw away food that has been warmer than 40°F for more than two hours.
• Check in with family, friends, and neighbors. Let people know you are safe and check on others, especially older adults and people who may need additional support.
• Prevent electrical hazards. Unplug appliances and electronics to help prevent damage from power surges when power returns. If a circuit breaker trips, contact an electrician to inspect the system before resetting it.
• Use flashlights instead of candles. Flashlights are safer during a power outage. If you must use candles, follow candle fire safety guidelines and never leave candles unattended.
  
• Prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Always use generators, camp stoves, and charcoal grills outdoors and at least 20 feet away from windows, doors, and vents. Never use a gas stovetop or oven to heat your home.
• Decide if you need to leave. Consider leaving your home if it becomes too hot or too cold, or if you need power for medical equipment. Check the County of Santa Clara Office of Emergency Management webpage for information about local warming and cooling centers and power-charging stations.

What To Do After A Power Outage

• Check medications. If the power has been out for more than one day, check medications that require refrigeration. Dispose of any medication that should be refrigerated unless the label says it is safe to use after being stored at a higher temperature. San José residents can take advantage of Santa Clara County's household hazardous waste disposal program by scheduling a free drop-off appointment online.
• When in doubt, throw it out. Throw away food that has been at 40°F or higher for more than two hours, or food with an unusual smell, color, or texture. Never taste food to determine if it is safe. Do not rely only on how food looks or smells.
• Stay away from power lines. Stay at least 35 feet away from fallen power lines and anything they may be touching. If you see downed power lines or suspect another emergency, leave the area immediately and call 9-1-1. After calling 9-1-1, report downed power lines to PG&E at 1-800-743-5000.
• Avoid electrical hazards in flooded areas. Do not enter flooded areas or use electrical equipment that may have been exposed to water. Have a qualified professional inspect your electrical system before using it again.