SCE | Power Outage Safety Tips!

When power outages occur, it’s always good to be prepared. Whether it's a maintenance outage or a blackout from an unexpected storm, here are some tips to help you prepare for outages and lessen the impact until the lights come back on.

Preparing for an outage is easier than you think. Stocking up on a few supplies and planning ahead can help you stay safe, check out the tips below!

• If you see a downed power line, do not touch it or anything in contact with it. Call 911 immediately.

• Power outages in the area may impact traffic signals so motorists should use extreme caution and treat all intersections as four-way-stops.

• Remember to check emergency supplies to be sure you have a battery-operated radio, a flashlight, and fresh batteries.

• Use flashlights instead of candles to avoid fire hazards in your home or business.

• Consider using LED light bulbs with a battery backup, which can stay on during outages.

• If you’re in a vehicle with a fallen power line on it, stay in the vehicle and remain calm until help arrives. It is OK to use your cellphone to call 911. If you must leave the vehicle, remember to exit away from downed power lines and exit by jumping from the vehicle and landing with both feet together. You must not touch the vehicle and the ground at the same time. Then proceed away from the vehicle by shuffling and not picking up your feet until you are several yards away.

• If you use a generator, place it outdoors and plug individual appliances directly into it, using a heavy-duty extension cord. Connecting generators directly to household circuits create “backfeed,” which is dangerous to repair crews. Please consult the manufacturer’s manual for operating the generator.

• If someone in your home is dependent on electric-powered, life-sustaining medical equipment, have an emergency plan that includes a back-up power source or make arrangements to relocate. 

• Do not use outdoor cooking equipment to cook indoors. Such equipment can release carbon monoxide and other toxic gases. 

• Use stairs instead of an elevator.  Elevators are powered by electricity and may stop functioning during an outage. Be safe by taking the stairs and use a flashlight when necessary.

• For more information, visit sce.com/outagetips