How to be Prepared for a Power Outage

Determine if it's just you or a wider problem. Report the outage, then use the phone for emergencies only.

If you are indoors

Tune into your local radio station using a battery powered or wind up radio for storm and power outage updates
Turn off all appliances, including computers and those that generate heat, to help prevent hazards and damage when power is restored
Unplug all major appliances so that the power doesn't surge once it has returned
Turn off all lights except one inside and one outside
Use candles with extreme caution; light sticks or wind up flashlights are preferred sources of light
Don't open your freezer or refrigerator unless absolutely necessary
Never use charcoal or gas barbeques, camping heating equipment or home generators indoors

If you are outdoors

Never go near or touch a fallen power line. Assume it is live.
Stay at least 10 metres away from fallen power lines and treat all lines as a danger
Do not go near flooded areas; there could be live fallen power lines that you cannot see
Always use charcoal or gas barbeques, camping heating equipment or home generators outdoors

If you are in your car