Prepare for planned power and water outages

We regularly upgrade and maintain our distribution systems. To do this safely, power or water may be temporarily turned off. We keep interruptions brief and, whenever possible, notify you in advance so you can prepare.

Easy steps to prepare for planned power and water outages

The first step to prepare for a planned outage is knowing there will be one.

If your residence is scheduled for a planned outage, you may receive an automated phone call, an SMS text message, a paper notice or a visit from one of our crew members.

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Get your home ready for a planned power outage
Stock up for a planned water outage

Get your home ready for a planned power outage

You can take many of the same steps to prepare for a planned outage as you would to prepare for an emergency.

Refresh your emergency kit, if needed.
Notify your alarm company of the upcoming power interruption. Check that the battery back up, if you have one, is working properly.
Put a bag or block of ice in your refrigerator to keep contents cold.
Charge your cellphone and other devices in advance.
Ensure you have a back-up battery for medical equipment and contact your medical care provider and/or the manufacturer of your equipment to determine how to best prepare for the outage.
Read your electric garage door manual. Locate the emergency release handle and learn how to open and close the garage door without power.
Prepare to work elsewhere if you need access to devices that use power.

Use home generators safely

Home generators can keep essential equipment running during a power outage. They can also be extremely dangerous if they are not used properly.

Always follow all manufacturers' instructions.
Call a qualified electrician or electrical inspector if you have questions.
Never use portable generators, barbeques, or propane/kerosene heaters indoors. They give off carbon monoxide, which is odourless, invisible and can cause illness or even death.

You must contact EPCOR if you plan to use a generator during a planned power outage.

Keep your home comfortable during a planned power outage

Preparing your home before a planned power outage can help maintain comfort and reduce the impact on your daily routine.

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Winter

Increase the temperature on your thermostat by a few degrees before a planned power outage to help keep your home warm for longer.
Open curtains and blinds when the sun is out and close them at other times to keep the heat in.
Use door socks or draft stoppers to prevent heat loss from under doors.

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Summer

If you have air conditioning, lower the temperature by a few degrees before the outage to help keep your home cool for longer.
Open windows during cooler parts of the day and close window coverings before the hottest part of the day.
Use battery-operated fans to circulate air.

Stock up for a planned water outage

While it’s not convenient to be without water, a little planning makes it easier.

Collect water in advance

Fill containers for drinking (4 litres per person per day) or purchase bottled water. Ensure you also have enough for your pets.
Fill bathtubs or buckets for flushing toilets and basic cleaning.
Fill pots or jugs for cooking and washing.

Store supplies that don't need water

Hand sanitizer, wet wipes, dry shampoo, and other hygiene supplies.
Extra toilet paper and paper towels.
Disposable plates, cups, and utensils.

Plan ahead for water use

Do some laundry if the outage will be lengthy.
Water indoor and outdoor plants.

A person pouring water from a faucet into a glass, emphasizing hydration and clean tap water.