September is National Preparedness Month, and Idaho Power is reminding customers of the ways they can be ready in case of an extended power outage. With continued wildfires throughout the region and fall storms always a possibility, it’s important to be prepared for potential power outages, no matter the season.
Although Idaho Power keeps the lights on 99.9% of the time, when outages occur due to extreme weather or fires, they can last hours or even days. Here are ways you can stay prepared for, and informed about, outages:
- Download the Idaho Power mobile app and sign up for push notifications to receive outage information specific to your home or business, or sign up to receive outage text or email alerts at idahopower.com/myaccount.
- Prepare for medical needs, whether those are related to refrigerated medicine or electrically powered medical equipment.
- Find a way to feed and water pets, service animals or livestock in case well pumps don’t have power.
- Learn how to manually open security gates and garage doors.
- Gather an emergency kit with the following items to have on hand:
- Flashlights
- Matches
- Blankets
- Bottled water (5 gallons per person)
- Non-perishable food (canned goods, crackers, etc.)
- Non-electric can opener
- Baby food or formula and diapers, if needed
- Pet food, if needed
- First-aid kit and any prescription medications
- Battery or solar-powered chargers for your devices
- Battery-powered radio, clock and flashlight
- Extra batteries
- Board games or cards for entertainment
- A block of ice in the freezer
To learn more about being prepared for outages, watch this video on our top five outage tips and visit idahopower.com/outagetips.
Erica Shiflet
Communications Leader
eshiflet@idahopower.com
208-388-2913