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emergency-preparedness

Power Outage Safety

We understand power outages are inconvenient, whether they last a few minutes or a few days. Often times the cause of the outage is weather-related. In late fall and winter, ice/snow storms can cause outages. In summer, hurricanes and thunderstorms are often to blame. Please take a few minutes to prepare you and your family in advance before the next outage occurs.

Create an Emergency Outage Kit

Items to include:

  • Flashlights and fresh batteries (use battery powered flashlights and lanterns rather than candles to minimize the risk of fire)
  • Battery-powered radio or television and extra batteries
  • Land line phone with cord (Cordless phones require electricity to operate)
  • Battery-powered or windup alarm clock
  • A supply of bottled water (one gallon per person per day)
  • Non-perishable foods that require no heating
  • Hand-operated can opener
  • Blankets, bedding, or sleeping bags and a change of clothes
  • First Aid Kit and prescription medications
  • Special items for infants, the elderly or family members with special needs
  • Pet supplies
  • Extra set of car keys and house keys
  • Emergency Services and UGI telephone numbers

Protect Food and Equipment

Take these precautions:

  • Have a supply of canned goods, juices, peanut butter, “no-freeze” entrees, and snack bars.
  • Keep freeze-packs frozen; freeze gallons of water or keep bags of ice on-hand.
  • Make plans with family or friends in other towns to share freezer space at each other’s homes.
  • During power outages, keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed and only open them when necessary. (If you have a full freezer, and keep the door closed, food will stay frozen for 36 to 48 hours; half-full freezer will stay frozen for about 24 hours. Use gallon containers filled with water to keep your freezer full if you have space.)
  • When buying electronic equipment, look for battery backup items.
  • Electrical surge protectors / suppressors should be used on electronic equipment, especially “sensitive” equipment. Electronic equipment should be plugged into separate, grounded circuits.
  • Contact an electrician to discuss having a lightning arrester installed in your main circuit panel.
  • If you have equipment that must continue to have power, consider purchasing an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS).
  • If you use a generator during an outage, please make sure it is used safely. To prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, generators, grills and similar items should only be used outdoors.

In an Outage, stay alert, remain calm, and check your home

  • Call UGI Electric at (800) 276-2722 if you see downed power lines. DO NOT touch downed lines. Instruct children to STAY AWAY from downed lines.
  • Turn off all appliances, even if you do not have power.
  • Make sure faucets are in the off position.
  • If you are experiencing a power outage, visit UGI’s Outage Center for more information.