Prepare for power and water emergencies

Unexpected power and water outages can happen at any time. You can be ready for them with a little planning. Small steps now keep you safe and worry-free later.

Easy steps to prepare for power and water emergencies

In Edmonton, common causes of outages include storms, extreme cold and heat, wildfires, and equipment failure. Knowing what to do before you find yourself without power or water can make it easier to manage and stay safe.

Sign up to get EPCOR power outage alerts by text or email.
Bookmark our power outage map and water outage map so you can find them easily.
Read more from the City of Edmonton on how to prepare for emergencies.

Emergency kit essentials

Prepare an emergency kit and keep it somewhere that is easy to find. Your emergency kit should include supplies for at least 72 hours.

Emergency supplies

Flashlights (LED preferred) and extra batteries
Battery-operated or hand-crank radio
Portable power banks (fully charged)
Solar charger or car charger for phones
First-aid kit
Manual can opener
Blankets and warm clothing
Hand sanitizer, moist towelettes, and dry shampoo for hygiene
Disinfecting wipes for cleaning surfaces
Cash (in case ATMs or card readers don’t work)

Food and water

Store sealed containers of drinking water in a cool, dark place for use in an emergency. If you choose to use bottled water, remember to regularly check and replace the containers based on the "best before date" label.
Ensure you always have a supply of non-perishable food in your pantry.
Always keep enough medications on hand.
Don’t forget your pets. Keep a supply of their pet food and medications with your kit.

Emergency kit checklist and phone numbers

Print our outage checklist and keep it with your emergency kit.
Print a list of emergency numbers. Include fire, police, ambulance, and EPCOR’s emergency phone number (780-412-4500).

Refresh your emergency supplies

Check your kit once or twice a year to make sure it's well-stocked.

Rotate out food, water and medications.
Check that equipment still works and is charged.
Replace old batteries.

Prepare for power failure

There are many options for back-up power, such as generators, battery back-up systems, and solar power systems. Ensure any system is properly ventilated and installed by a professional.

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.

Note essential items around your home that require power:

Know how your sump pump works and consider consulting a professional on back-up power options.
Ensure you have a back-up battery for medical equipment.
Have an extra battery for your home security system.

Vehicle emergency preparedness

Even if you drive your vehicle every day, there are steps you can take to be ready in an emergency.

Keep your gas tank at least half full all the time.
Keep a phone charger in the glovebox.
Read your electric garage door manual. Locate the emergency release handle and learn how to open and close the door without power.