Power to go out for thousands of homes Sunday night

Create an outage plan

• Share the plan with all family members so everyone knows what to do in case of an outage.
• During a power outage, basic services like phone access, water, and electricity may be unavailable. Roads could be blocked, stores may close, and gas stations might not be operational. A good outage plan will help you stay safe.
• Ensure every household member has a copy and understands the plan
• Practice the plan with your family at least once a year
• Plan for extended outages if necessary
• Keep a list of local emergency contact numbers (fire, police, ambulance, etc.) in an easily accessible location

Build an emergency kit

• Ensure you can be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours during an outage.
• Regularly check your kit to make sure it's well-stocked and all equipment is working.

Emergency kit essentials

• Bottled water (two litres per person, per day)
• Three-day supply of non-perishable, ready-to-eat foods for each person
• Manual can opener
• First-aid kit
• Medications and eyewear prescriptions
• Ice packs and a whistle
• Flashlights or headlamps with extra batteries
• Battery-operated or crank radio and clock
• External power bank and portable generator
• Warm clothing and blankets
• Cash in small bills
• Multi-function tool and knife, duct tape, garbage bags, dust masks
• Personal hygiene items and a copy of your emergency plan
• Important documents (e.g., birth certificates, medical cards, insurance, etc.)
• Local map and emergency contact numbers
• Spare keys for home and car
• If you have children: Diapers, wipes, formula, bottles, and medication
• If you have pets: Pet food, water for 72 hours, water and food dish, blanket, and medications
• For people with disabilities: Consider backup power for medical equipment
• Keep a flashlight and charged cell phone handy
• Create a self-help network and enroll in a medical alert program
• Alert property management if you live in an apartment and require assistance during an outage

Additional items

• Games, books, and cards for entertainment
• LED candles
• Change of clothing and footwear for each family member
• Garbage bags for sanitation
• Basic tools like a hammer, pliers, and screwdrivers
• Small fuel-driven stove and fuel (store properly)
• Two extra litres of water per person per day for cooking and cleaning

Here's a checklist for people preparing for an outage.

Affected areas