Summer of Safety: Preparing for Power Outages

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Whether California experiences high winds, extreme heat, or other effects of climate change, there are various factors that could cause for your power to go out.

The California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) wants you and your family to be prepared if the power goes out.

Here a few things to consider:

 

Have a Plan

Be prepared before, during and after a power outage. Ensure your family and loved ones have the resources they need to stay safe.

  • Keep phones and backup batteries fully charged.
  • Get flashlights or lanterns with extra batteries, and surge protectors for sensitive devices. Do not use candles or oil lanterns.
  • Stock up on batteries and other alternative power sources, such as a portable charger or power bank.
  • If you have an electric garage door, find out where the manual release lever is located and learn how to operate it.

Protect Your Loved Ones Who Have Medical Needs

If you use electric medical and assistive devices. Here are a few additional tips to consider:

  • Pack a Go Bag that includes emergency contact list, list of medicines you take, and information on your medical needs and devices.
  • Sign up for your utility’s outage alerts and services for people with disabilities, such as transportation.
  • Develop a plan with your medical equipment supplier. Some companies may supply additional medical equipment and other services during emergency situations.
  • Discuss a personal disaster plan with family and caregivers. If your needs cannot be met during a power outage, plan with caregivers for transportation to a location with power.
  • Keep emergency phone numbers in your cell phone contacts or near your landline. This includes your doctor or medical equipment company.
  • If you use a motorized wheelchair or scooter, have an extra battery. A car battery also can be used with a wheelchair but will not last as long as a wheelchair’s deep-cycle battery.
  • If you are blind or have a visual disability, store a talking or Braille clock or large-print timepiece with extra batteries.
  • If you are deaf or have a hearing loss, consider getting a small portable battery-operated television set.

Medical Baseline Program

A medical baseline program is an assistance program for residents who depend on power for certain medical needs. Participation is important to ensure you receive additional notification of upcoming or current power shutoff events.

Learn more about the medical baseline program offered through your provider:

Sign Up for Alerts

Signing up for alerts can help you stay informed of upcoming or current power shutoff events. Remember to keep your contact information updated so your energy provider can properly notify you.

 

Reminder

Check in with your neighbors, family and friends who may need additional assistance during an emergency. If a power outage occurs during an extreme heat event and your home becomes too hot, seek out a cooling center or public area to cool down and stay safe from the heat.