With more winter weather arriving this week, Idaho Power is reminding customers to stay safe and always be prepared for possible outages. Although Idaho Power keeps the lights on 99.9% of the time, weather-related outages can last hours or even longer. The company offers the following tips to ensure you’re ready if you are impacted by an outage:
- Sign up to receive alerts of outages at your residence or business through My Account or by downloading Idaho Power’s free mobile app.
- Maintain both home and car emergency kits with water and other essentials. For a full list of items to include in your kit, visit idahopower.com/outagetips.
- Learn how to manually open security gates and garage doors.
- Keep a block of ice in your freezer in case the power goes out, and if it does, keep your refrigerator/freezer doors closed to keep cold air where it’s needed most.
If your power goes out:
- Check the online Outage Map or call 1-800-488-6151 to view or report outages.
- To protect your appliances, turn off any that were in use when the power went out — especially electric ranges and space heaters — to prevent the possibility of a fire if you’re away when power is restored.
- For safety reasons, use battery-powered lights instead of candles.
- Only use generators in well-ventilated areas, and ensure the total electric load on your generator won’t exceed the generator’s rating.
- Never attempt to connect a portable generator to house wiring or plug it into an outlet.
Stay clear of downed power lines:
Falling trees, high winds and car accidents — especially on slippery roads — can knock power lines to the ground. If you come across a downed power line, always assume it is energized and dangerous. Stay clear, keep others away and immediately call 911 or Idaho Power at 208-388-2323 in the Treasure Valley or 1-800-488-6151. Learn more about what to do if a power line falls on your vehicle on Idaho Power’s website.
Erica Shiflet
Corporate Communications Manager
eshiflet@idahopower.com
208-388-2913