Before calling to report an outage, please check your fuses or circuit breakers at the electrical panel and check with neighbors to see if their power is out.
To report an outage, please call 376-3500
- STAY AWAY from downed power lines or broken utility poles.
- DO NOT attempt to remove fallen trees or branches tangled in power lines.
- STAY PUT if power lines fall on the car you are in until rescuers arrive. It is safe to use your cell phone to call for help.
- DO NOT run a generator or camping stove inside a home or garage.
- BE CAREFUL with candles and other open flames.
- DO use battery-operated flashlight and lamps for emergency lighting.
- DO turn off electrical equipment, computers and appliances you were using when the power went out.
- DO use your cell phone to have a friend with power check www.opalco.com for outage updates.
In case of a prolonged power outage:
- Unplug all appliances, electronics and computer equipment – leaving one light on to let you know when power has been restored. Turn off water heater at the breaker/fuse box. When power is restored, turn heat, appliances and electronics on gradually to prevent an internal surge.
- If you use a generator, connect the equipment you want to use directly to the outlets on the generator. Generators should be properly installed by a licensed electrician to protect yourselves and the OPALCO line crew. NEVER operate a generator inside your home or any enclosed space.
- Use a fireplace or woodstove for heat and cooking.
- Limit the number of times you open your refrigerator and freezer.
- Use camping gear only outdoors or in well-ventilated areas.
- Know the flu-like (and other) symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning if using propane, fuel oil or wood.
- Be prepared - gather the supplies you’ll need to be safe and comfortable.