1. Monitor the condition of trees near your business
   Weather elements and storms can bring trees and branches down onto power lines, causing power outages and electrically-charged hazards. Call us to investigate trees near your business that may pose a threat to avoid disaster before it hits.
2. Use an emergency generator safely
   If you are planning to purchase an emergency generator or currently own one, contact the dealers and manufacturers of your furnace, equipment and lighting fixtures to confirm power needs and operating methods.
3. Develop a business continuity plan
   Weather elements and storms can bring trees and branches down onto power lines, causing power outages and electrically-charged hazards. Call us to investigate trees near your business that may pose a threat to avoid disaster before it hits.

1. Assess the breadth of the power outage
   Determine if the outage has occurred only at your business or in the entire area. If you notice adjacent businesses 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 building, in which case you should remain 10 metres away from the damage and notify Elexicon.If it appears that the entire area is experiencing an outage, notify Elexicon.
2. Turn off and unplug items at your business
   Immediately turn off and unplug tools and electronic equipment. 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 your business, and outside if appropriate, 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 computers.
3. Use a portable generator
   When a power outage strikes, portable generators can keep your business up and running 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.
4.  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 business with a battery-powered backup, in case it is connected to your business’ electrical supply.
5. 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 electronics and appliances affected by water
   Before plugging in your electronics and 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 equipment 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 electronics and appliances right away
   The electric power system will need time to stabilize before electronics, equipment and appliances 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 business’ hot water heater, be sure that it is full before turning it on.
4. Report irregularities in and around your business
   Following an outage, there may be damaged or fallen trees and branches on the road, close to your business, or on properties around you. If you see a fallen tree on your property, contact a licensed arborist. Trees found on municipality-owned properties should be reported to the Operations department of your municipality.

Other post-outage actions include:

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