Rolling Blackouts into Disaster Planning
Lightening the Load when the Lights Go Out
Release Date: July 30, 2001
Release Number: R10-01-39
Seattle, WA -- The energy crisis in California has focused attention on California and on rolling blackouts - planned power outages, usually scheduled during peak-use hours and of set duration, which are "rolled" from sector to sector to prevent large scale grid failures. While most experts feel that the Pacific Northwest is pretty well insulated from the hazards that burden California, FEMA Acting Regional Director Tammy Doherty cautions against complacency.
"Our region is prone to a variety of natural disasters, ranging from seasonal flooding, flash floods and winter storms to wildfires, earthquakes, and even volcanic activity," warns Doherty. "Power grids, generating plants, transformer stations, power poles and even buried cable are vulnerable. As families and businesses review their disaster plans and emergency kits, emergency power needs should rank right up there with food, water, first aid kits and shelter."
Candles may add a spark of adventure during power failures but are dangerous. Flashlights and electric lanterns are safer by far. Battery operated radios and clocks are other essentials, along with a supply of fresh batteries. If electric wheel chairs, breathing machines or other electric life support devices are part of the equation, consider extra battery packs or a prearranged agreement from local police or fire stations for priority support.
During a power outage, resist the temptation to call 9-1-1 for information --that's what your battery-powered radio is for. Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible to prevent food spoilage. Turn off major electric appliances to protect against power surges when power is restored. Turn off all lights but one (to alert you when power resumes). Plan on cell phones or corded phones for emergency calls - cordless phones require electricity. Don't plug emergency generators into electric outlets or hook them directly to your home's electrical system - as they can feed electricity back into the power lines, putting you and line workers in danger. Keep your car fuel tank at least half-full (gas stations rely on electricity to power their pumps).
When the power does come back on, it is a good idea to wait a few minutes before turning on major appliance to help eliminate problems that could occur if there's a sharp increase in demand.
If you think that electric power has been restored to your area but your home is still without power, call your local power company.
Listen as Tammy Doherty, Acting Regional Director for FEMA Region X, talks about Power Outages and Rolling Blackout preparedness and mitigation efforts. (.wav ~6.3 MB) or read the transcript. (Word)
Last Modified: Thursday, 23-Oct-2003 10:37:01