Power outages can be disruptive to our lives—and sometimes even dangerous. They can last a few minutes to several days, impacting needs such as lighting, heating, cooling, communication, cooking and medicine refrigeration. Whether a power outage is planned or unexpected, it's important to prepare for one ahead of time to ensure you and your family stay safe.

How to Prepare For a Power Outage

• Create an emergency supply kit. An emergency supply kit is a collection of critical items and basic necessities your household may need in the event of an emergency. Remember to also prepare supplies for any pets you may have.
  
• Take inventory of the items that rely on electricity. Keep extra batteries or other alternative power sources on hand to meet your electrical needs. Have flashlights for every member in your household.
• Evaluate your medical needs. Talk to your medical provider about a power outage plan for medical devices powered by electricity and refrigerated medicines. Find out how long medication can be stored at higher temperatures and get specific guidance for any critical medications or medical devices.
• Create an emergency communication plan. A family emergency communication plan tells your family what to do, how to find each other, and how to communicate in case of an emergency. Your plan should include strategy for both communication and meeting up.
• Sign up for emergency notifications. Sign up for AlertSCC to receive emergency notifications from Santa Clara County’s official emergency alert system. Sign up for PG&E's Public Safety Power Shutoffs notifications via www.pge.com.
• Install smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. Remember to test them monthly. Replace batteries once a year or as needed.

What to Do During A Power Outage

• Keep freezers and refrigerators closed. A refrigerator or freeze may keep your food cold for up to 48 hours, depending on how full it is. Monitor temperatures and throw out food that has been warmer than 40 °F for more than two hours.
• Connect with your support network. Let people in your network know that you're okay. Check on family and friends, especially older adults and other individuals with special needs.
• Prevent power overloads and fire hazards. Unplug appliances and electronics to avoid power overloads or damage from power surges. If any circuit breakers have been tripped, contact an electrician to inspect them before turning them on.
• Use a flashlight, not a candle. If you must use a candle, keep these candle fire safety tips in mind.
  
• Prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Generators, camp stoves and charcoal grills should always be used outdoors and at least 20 feet away from windows. Never use a gas stovetop or oven to heat your home. Turn off or disconnect appliances, equipment and electronics.
• Decide if you need to stay or go. Evacuate if your home is too hot or too cold, or if you have medical devices that need power. 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

• Medications. If the power is out for more than a day, properly dispose of any medication that should be refrigerated, unless the drug’s label says otherwise. 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 any food that has been exposed to temperatures 40 °F or higher for more than two hours, or that has an unusual odor, color or texture. Never taste food or rely on appearance or odor to determine its safety.
• Keep away from power lines. Stay at least 35 feet away from fallen power lines and anything they are touching. If you do see downed power lines, or suspect another emergency situation, leave the area immediately and call 9-1-1. Afterwards, call PG&E at 1-800-743-5000.
• Avoid electrical shock in flood areas. Don’t go into flooded areas or use any electrical equipment or electronics that may have been submerged. Have a qualified electrical inspector check the electrical system.