1. Build an emergency survival kit
   Having an emergency kit on hand will better prepare you for unexpected and extended power outages. Be sure to pack items that will keep you comfortable for at least three days (72 hours). Visit Emergency Management Ontario for a checklist on what to include in your survival kit.
2. Monitor the condition of trees on your property
   Weather elements and storms can bring trees and branches down onto power lines, causing power outages and electrically-charged hazards. Contact us to investigate trees on your property that may pose a threat to avoid disaster before it hits. You can email: maintenance@elexiconenergy.com
3. Purchase a non-electric standby stove or heater
   Power outages can occur for extended periods of time. You may want to purchase backup devices such as a non-electric standby stove or heater to warm your home and cook food. Be sure to closely follow the instructions on each appliance to avoid risks and hazards.
4. Clean your chimney
   If your home has a wood-burning fireplace, clean out your chimney once a year in the early fall to remove creosote build-up that can cause a fire.
5. Safely use an emergency generator
   If you are planning to purchase an emergency generator or currently own one, contact the dealers and manufacturers of your furnace, appliances and lighting fixtures to confirm power needs and operating methods.

1. Assess the breadth of the power outage
   Determine if the outage has occurred in your home or neighbourhood. If you notice your neighbours are not experiencing a power outage, inspect your circuit breaker panel or fuse box. Another common cause of an outage may be damaged service wires leading to your home, in which case you should remain 10 metres away from the damage and notify Elexicon. If it appears that your neighbourhood is experiencing an outage, notify Elexicon.
2. Turn off and unplug items in your home
   Immediately turn off and unplug tools, appliances and electronic equipment in your home. Your thermostat should be turned down to its lowest temperature to prevent damage from a power surge when the power is restored. Keep one light on inside and outside of your home to alert you and the utilities team when the power has been restored. Tip: Use a surge protector on the power bars of sensitive electrical appliances, such as televisions and computers.
3. Avoid opening freezer and fridge doors
   Most food will remain frozen for up to 36 hours if it has been in a closed freezer.
4. Use a portable generator
   When a power outage strikes, portable generators can provide security and comfort until electricity is restored. If you require a portable generator, reference the owner’s manual and the Electrical Safety Authority for tips on proper use.
5. Do not use charcoal or gas appliances and equipment
   Charcoal and gas produce carbon monoxide when heated/burned, which can be potentially fatal to yourself and those around you. Tip: Install a carbon monoxide detector in your home with a battery-powered backup, in case it is connected to your home’s electrical supply.
6. Use candles appropriately
   If a power outage occurs, you may want to use candles to light your home. To prevent a fire or other potential damage, ensure lit candles are never within the reach of children or pets, and do not leave a candle unattended.
7. Stay in the know
   Pay close attention to local media updates and Elexicon’s website for information, updates, and advice from authorities.

1. Avoid using appliances affected by water
   Before plugging in your appliances, check electrical outlets, switch boxes or fuse-breaker panels for exposure to water. If they appear to be wet, do not plug in or use the appliances until they have been inspected, serviced, and authorized for continued use by a licensed electrical contractor or serviced by the manufacturer.
2. Do not reconnect appliances right away
   The electric power system will need time to stabilize before appliances and equipment are reconnected. To avoid potential damage and risk, slowly plug in or turn on items one by one over 15 minutes. This will allow Elexicon ample time to stabilize its distribution system and prevent a power surge.
3. Assess your hot water heater
   To avoid damage to the heating elements of your home’s hot water heater, be sure that it is full before turning it on.
4. Check your fridge(s) and freezer(s) for spoiled food
   Many foods are not safe to consume after a few hours at room temperature (or below room temperature), which is why it is critical to assess the food in your fridge and freezer for signs of spoilage. Most food will remain frozen if it has been in a closed freezer for no more than 36 hours; however, as food defrosts, it may need to be cooked or discarded.
5. Report irregularities in and around your home
   Following an outage, there may be damaged or fallen trees and branches on the road, on your property, or on properties around you. Contact your municipality to remove trees on municipality-owned property. For tree debris or fallen trees impacting power lines please contact our power outage hotline 1-866-579-6819.

Other post-outage actions include:

• Avoid your basement if flooding has occurred, unless you are certain the power has been disconnected
• Replenish your emergency kit
• Reset clocks and timers