What Causes Power Outages?

Elexicon Energy’s system controllers and crews work hard to keep our customers’ homes bright and operational.

However, many external factors could cause a power outage to your home and neighbourhood – from extreme weather like thunderstorms and freezing rain to equipment failures and damage from vehicle accidents.

Outages by the Numbers

  • 37% Equipment Failure
  • 17% Animal contact
  • 13% Unknown Reasons
  • 10% Planned Outages
  • 10% Tree Contact
  • 7% Severe Weather
  • 4% Loss of Supply
  • 1% Unforeseen Events

How to Prepare for a Power Outage

Power outages can happen at any time. Below are helpful steps on what to do before, during, and after a power outage to keep your family, home, and neighbourhood safe.

  • Before a Power Outage
Before a Power Outage

Before a Power Outage

  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.